District outlines safety communications and front‑office protocols after public concerns about immigration enforcement

Oak Park Elementary School District 97 administrators told the board on March 10 they have reviewed and strengthened school safety protocols and communications in response to parent concerns about immigration enforcement.

Dr. Felicia Starks and Amanda Siegfried said the district reviewed public comments from a February meeting, compared local practice with nearby districts and national resources, and repackaged existing guidance into clearer communications. They cited two emailed board/community updates (Feb. 10 and Feb. 24), a new FAQ posted on the district web resources, and a draft visual flowchart designed to guide front‑office staff if law enforcement or immigration officials arrive.

Administrators said their guidance emphasizes that schools do not request immigration status and explained what constitutes lawful entry by a law‑enforcement agent. They plan paper English‑Spanish copies of key resources to leave at front desks, and noted the website offers Google Translate access. Principals have reviewed protocols and staff were asked to discuss them at staff meetings to ensure consistent understanding.

Board members asked about translating materials into other top languages for particular schools, distributing hard copies, and offering in‑person forums in addition to written responses. Administrators said they would follow up with principals to identify the top languages at each school and to plan community conversations.

The district said it will incorporate requested community suggestions into ongoing review and will return with updates as steps are implemented.