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Students and community groups urge support for National Independent Black Student Union and dual-language expansion
Summary
Student representatives from the National Independent Black Student Union and allied community groups asked the Waukegan board to support student voice, equitable access and programs including a two-way dual-language pilot at Oakdale Elementary.
Student leaders and community advocates addressed the Waukegan CUSD 60 board during public comment on Jan. 28, asking the district to support a new National Independent Black Student Union (NIBSU) and the district’s pilot two-way dual-language program at Oakdale Elementary.
Armani, vice president of NIBSU, told the board the student group seeks equitable education and supports all students; he said the organization promotes accountability, academic expectations and school spirit. "We are the voice of students regardless of your race," Armani said. The group outlined membership and conduct guidelines that include maintaining at least a C average for active participation and a commitment to conflict resolution through union leaders. The presenters said the union has about 55 members at Waukegan High School and two at Warren.
The Black Abolition Movement for the Mind — which spoke in support of NIBSU — said students can identify and propose meaningful solutions to school problems when guided by principles of accountability. A representative said the organization will defend legitimate efforts by the student union and encouraged district officials to allow students to propose changes without fear of retaliation.
Oakdale dual-language pilot: Regina Briscoe (public comment) reported she visited Oakdale’s two-way dual-language pilot and urged the district to continue and expand the program, noting strong student engagement and asking the district not to cut the pilot. "Please don't cut it out for next year," Briscoe said, praising teachers and paraprofessionals and encouraging parents to enroll students.
Why it matters: Student-led groups and community advocates asked the board to preserve and expand programs that district stakeholders said support language access, student leadership and school equity. Speakers combined requests for program continuity (the Oakdale dual-language pilot) with calls for administrative support and safe channels for student proposals.
Ending: Board members thanked the speakers and noted the public-comment process; the president encouraged student groups seeking more time or a formal presentation to request a special presentation through the board president.
