During the recent Community High School District 94 Board of Education meeting, a significant concern was raised regarding the communication of the district's ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) protocol to the immigrant community. A board member highlighted that 50% of their English as a Second Language (ESL) students were absent over the past two days, suggesting that families may be feeling anxious and uncertain about their children's safety at school.
The board member questioned when the last communication in Spanish was sent to families about the district's plan to protect students from ICE interactions. They noted that District 33 had recently issued a safety protocol update in both English and Spanish, emphasizing the importance of clear communication in addressing community fears.
In response to these concerns, the district's ICE protocol includes provisions for regular teacher training on how to handle ICE interactions and understand student rights. The board member advocated for this training, stressing that teachers working with the immigrant community require additional support to manage the emotional challenges that may arise.
This discussion underscores the district's commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of all students, particularly those from immigrant backgrounds. As the community navigates these challenging times, effective communication and support for educators will be crucial in fostering a safe learning environment for every student.