Despite the rain, students at Nepean High School in Ottawa’s west end staged a lunch-hour protest against cuts to their extracurricular activities, like sports and art clubs.

“I play a lot of sports for Nepean and we’re not getting the privilege of playing them this year,” said one student.

The only sport the school is offering is field hockey. It was re-instated because a retired teacher and parent were allowed to coach after the administration waived the teacher supervisor requirement, according to the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board officials.

That means people other than teachers can run after school activities.

Students at the school were out protesting with the hope of getting other sports back too.

Many elementary and high school teachers across the province are currently refusing to participate in extracurricular activities in protest of an anti-strike bill passed by the Ontario government.

The legislation is also creating division within the schools.

“There is quite a bit of tension because people are picking sides,” said student Ryley Alp.

“People don’t understand that we’re not protesting against teachers and the government, we’re protesting for ourselves.”

11 Ottawa public high schools did not register sports teams for the fall semester. Many students hope winter and spring sports can still be saved.

Ottawa’s Glebe Collegiate is one of three high schools that has a full roster of sports teams this fall.

“Usually I would take it for granted just for fun. I’m fortunate now for having sports in my school,” said Reuben Saikaley a Grade 9 student.

“I feel pretty lucky to have that now that other schools are cancelling sports teams,” said Loucas, a Grade 9 student.

Other students feel the same way.

“I’m really relieved we don’t have to find another place to play it,” said Brianna Fentiman-Jones, a Grade 11 student who plays volleyball.

“I can keep playing now. If we weren’t allowed to play I wouldn’t be getting extra practice…and get on university ball team.”

Some students at Nepean High School said protesting may not be the best way to get their message across.

“I think this isn’t the right way to present our feelings about the situation said Vivian Eyre, a Grade 12 student at the school.

“It’s kind of ironic they’re out here now. They won’t be able to get help after school and they’re missing class now.”

Ottawa-Carleton District School Board officials are expected to meet with trustees Tuesday night.

With a report from CTV Ottawa’s Vanessa Lee