VIDALIA — Despite rumors otherwise, a mass protest by Vidalia High School students about the lack of a pep rally Friday was peaceful and disbanded shortly after it started.

Principal Charles Anderson said after a staff miscommunication, no pep rally was planned for Friday. As a result, approximately 100 students did not come in from recess and stayed outside chanting they wanted a pep rally.

When Anderson and the assistant principal arrived on the scene, Anderson said everyone went back to class. The whole incident lasted approximately six to eight minutes, Anderson said.

“It was peaceful,” Anderson said. “There was no destruction of property or anything.”

After the demonstration, Anderson said he went around to classrooms to tell students he applauded their spirited demonstration and returning to class so quickly. Anderson said he told them he understood they wanted to express their frustration, but to do it in a different manner and assured them there would be pep rallies in the future.

Anderson said he does not plan on pursuing disciplinary measures.