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Multiple parents and advocates urge Plymouth‑Canton schools to reassure immigrant families after ICE shootings reported elsewhere

Plymouth-Canton Community Schools Board of Education · January 28, 2026
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Summary

Several speakers at public comment urged the board to proactively inform and protect immigrant students following recent shootings involving ICE agents in other states; speakers requested staff training, clearer protocols, outreach, and promised follow‑up from the superintendent.

During the meeting’s public‑comment period, multiple residents urged the Plymouth‑Canton Community Schools board to step up communication and protections for immigrant students after a string of high‑profile shootings involving federal immigration agents outside Michigan.

Sarah Pruzynski, speaking as "a mother of two, concerned citizen," thanked the district for prior support and said recent events have heightened fear in immigrant communities. "I encourage you as board members, educators, faculty, and community leaders to continue to openly support our immigrant students," she said, urging expanded outreach and volunteer networks for translation and legal help.

Michelle Moustakas recounted the case of Alex Pretti (as described in news reports) and characterized the killings as a test of community values. "While exercising his legal right to film an ICE operation, he went to help a woman who had been shoved to the ground and pepper sprayed," Moustakas said, describing the shooting that followed as part of her appeal for the district to set clear protections for vulnerable students.

Laurie Mayers, president of PFLAG Plymouth Canton, cited reporting to ask the district to ensure staff understand protocols if immigration authorities appear on campus. "Bridge Michigan reported yesterday that ICE arrested 2,349 people in Michigan from January through October 25," Mayers said, noting the district should prepare staff across roles from bus drivers to secretaries.

Judy Oldfield Wilson and Rachel Hayes also described fear among young children and families and asked the board to use its communications channels to reassure families, request staff readiness, and provide clear, accessible information about how the district will respond.

No substantive board response was given during the public‑comment period; the board reiterated its policy that it does not respond during public comment but said Superintendent Merritt would follow up with commenters and staff on the concerns raised.