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Oak Park ESD 97 board members express concerns after trustee detention; urge community support and share resources
Summary
Board members described attending a press conference about a village trustee detained at Broadview Detention Center, expressed concern for families fearful of detention, and said the district will share guidance and resources with families and PTOs. They also urged community support such as food bank donations and mutual aid.
Board members addressed community concern after a village trustee was detained at Broadview Detention Center, describing attendance at a related press conference and urging supports for families experiencing fear and disruption.
A board member who spoke at length said she, President Moore and Dr. Perez attended the press conference and described the event as "incredibly difficult to hear," saying it raised concerns about due process and constitutional protections. "In this village at this time, we will not stand for it. Our constitution, and we teach our kids the constitution and it's part of our curriculum in middle school," the board member said.
Board members said district staff and partner programs have prepared buildings and after-school programs, and that the district will post guidance and resources on its website and share materials with PTOs. The speaker urged parents to talk to children in age-appropriate ways and noted district staff are working with PTOs to clarify processes and supports.
The board also encouraged community action that does not require protesting, citing food bank needs and mutual-aid efforts. "If you're able to, please consider donating to a food bank or donating to 1 of the main causes that are fighting," the speaker said. Board members suggested mutual aid and grocery donations as ways community members can help.
The board concluded the meeting with a preview of upcoming agenda items, including a proposed SEIU contract on a future agenda, and a motion to move into closed session.
