Canton School Board addresses safety policy for immigrant students amidst community concerns

The P-CCS Board of Education held a regular meeting on April 22, 2025, addressing several pressing issues affecting the school community. A significant focus was placed on the development of a safe zone policy aimed at ensuring the safety and well-being of immigrant students and their families. The proposal, which aligns with guidelines from the National Education Administration, seeks to create an environment where all students feel secure and informed about school policies.

During the meeting, community member Steve Gentilia raised concerns regarding a recent accident involving his daughter at the high school. He expressed dissatisfaction with the handling of the incident, questioning why no incident report was filed and why video footage was not flagged for review. Gentilia criticized the school's administration for what he perceived as a lack of transparency and accountability, suggesting that the principal's leadership was negatively impacting the school environment.

Another speaker, Sue Mutsassen, shared a personal story about her recent loss and the challenges she faced in notifying her workplace. She highlighted feelings of being overlooked and the need for better support systems within the school community for staff dealing with personal crises.

The meeting underscored the importance of communication and support within the school district, as well as the need for policies that foster a safe and inclusive environment for all students. The board is expected to follow up on the proposed safe zone policy and address the concerns raised by community members in future discussions.