Student speakers and union leaders used public comment on Jan. 13 to describe walkouts and protests in response to immigration enforcement activity in the community and to press the board to protect students and families.

Eva Cortez, who said she serves on the LULAC board and as vice president of her school’s LULAC club, told directors that she expected about 100 students but that “there was more than 1,000 students today.” She urged the board to include students in policy conversations and to clearly communicate safety guidance about interactions with immigration enforcement. “Our voice matters,” Cortez said.

Christie Peak, president of the Evergreen Education Association, read a rep council statement expressing solidarity with immigrant, refugee, BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ communities and said recent immigration enforcement activity has created fear in the community and disrupted students’ learning.

Superintendent Maloney said the district recognizes students’ right to peacefully assemble under board policy and described staff actions taken during demonstrations: administrators designated areas for assemblies, staff were present to observe and support student safety, and students who left instructional time were counted as absent. “Our goal is to keep our students safe,” Maloney said.

Union and community speakers urged clearer communication and inclusion of students in policy development. Board members thanked commenters and signaled interest in community engagement as the district addresses safety and communication needs; no policy change was adopted at the Jan. 13 meeting.