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Westborough residents urge schools to address immigrant-family safety and racism concerns
Summary
A recent graduate and other residents urged the School Committee to do more to protect immigrant families from immigration enforcement and to address racism in schools; the superintendent reiterated the district’s commitment to student safety and inclusion and described district-level communications and actions begun in January.
A recent graduate told the Westborough School Committee she and other immigrant families feel fearful of immigration enforcement (ICE) and said the district should do more to prepare and protect students and families, including classroom discussion, informational materials and direct communication to families.
The speaker, who identified herself as a member of the Westborough Class of 2023 and a long-time resident, described incidents of racist vandalism at the high school and said she felt school responses were inadequate. She asked why the district does not provide information—she suggested a bulletin board with instructions or red cards—about what students should do if immigration enforcement arrives at school or a bus stop. The speaker said immigrant families in Westborough are fearful and that school materials and staff responses do not sufficiently address those concerns.
Committee Chair Sarah expressed sympathy and said she was sorry the speaker had the experience. Superintendent Allison said district leadership met immediately in January following executive orders (referring to recent state/federal actions) to discuss obligations to students with families from other countries, and that the district has communicated internally and externally about measures to make students feel welcome and safe. Allison said the district will continue that work and is committed to supporting families.
Resident Diane McPherson also addressed the committee and asked the committee to engage in conversations about support for middle school students and families, noting events and public meetings where the topic could be discussed further.
The committee did not adopt new policies or take formal action during the meeting; several committee members invited the speakers to remain after the public portion to continue a conversation or asked how administrators might follow up.
