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West Chicago board praises staff response after increased ICE activity, says schools kept students safe
Summary
Board President Rita Balgeman told the West Chicago ESD 33 board that staff implemented 'Secure and Teach' procedures and volunteered at dismissals and on buses after an increased ICE presence created community concern; the board stressed student safety remains the top priority.
Board President Rita Balgeman opened the meeting by addressing community concern stemming from an increased presence of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in West Chicago earlier that week.
"The increased presence of ICE in West Chicago created uncertainty and concern for many in our community," Balgeman said, adding that district schools "acted swiftly and responsibly, implementing Secure and Teach to add an extra layer of protection while keeping classrooms calm and learning uninterrupted." She thanked families, staff and community members who checked on students and volunteered at dismissal and on buses.
Balgeman emphasized the board's priority on student safety and said district staff remain "vigilant, prepared, and committed to protecting every child entrusted to us." There were no public comments recorded during the meeting that contradicted the board's account.
The board noted the events increased stress for some families and encouraged community members to continue checking on neighbors and students. No formal policy changes or motions related to the incident were made at the Sept. 18 meeting; the statement was a public reflection and reaffirmation of existing safety protocols.
