The Evergreen School District Board meeting on February 11, 2025, highlighted urgent concerns regarding the impact of immigration policies on students and their families. Students and educators shared personal stories that underscored the emotional toll of living in fear of deportation.

Leslie Guel, a senior at Evergreen High School, spoke passionately about her experiences since 2017 when her family faced the threat of immigration enforcement. Guel recounted the anxiety she felt as a fifth grader, worrying daily about her parents' safety and the possibility of returning home to an empty house. She emphasized that many students in the district are grappling with similar fears, which disrupt their ability to focus on education. Guel urged the board to provide support for immigrant families, stating, "School is supposed to be a safe place," and lamented that many students are missing school due to their fears.

Chrissy Fostering, a math teacher at Mountain View High School, also addressed the board, reflecting on the implications of an executive order that sought to revoke the designation of schools as safe zones for undocumented students. Fostering expressed her commitment to creating a supportive environment for her students and acknowledged the anxiety surrounding the issue.

The meeting served as a platform for voices within the community to advocate for empathy and understanding regarding the challenges faced by immigrant families. The board members were called upon to consider the emotional and educational needs of students living in fear, highlighting the importance of maintaining schools as safe havens.

As the meeting concluded, the overarching message was clear: the community is calling for action and support to ensure that all students can learn without the burden of fear overshadowing their educational experience. The board's response to these heartfelt testimonies will be crucial in shaping the district's approach to supporting vulnerable families in the coming months.