District News Detail

Please see the message below from Board President, Mr. Doug Goldberg, as read at the Board of Education Meeting on February 6, 2025.

 

Good evening, members of our community, parents, staff, and students,

Thank you all for being here tonight. Our district stands at the heart of a diverse and vibrant community, and it is my privilege to reaffirm our unwavering commitment to creating a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment for every student who walks through our doors.

In recent times, questions surrounding immigration have prompted concerns and uncertainties for many families. Let me be clear: our district is not involved in immigration enforcement, nor do we collect any information regarding the immigration status of our students. This is in line with Illinois law and, more importantly, reflects our dedication to ensuring that every child receives a high-quality education, regardless of their background or circumstances.

To ensure that we handle any potential immigration-related situations responsibly and with minimal disruption to our schools, we have put clear procedures in place:

    •    District administration staff and building administrators have been directed to respond swiftly and appropriately to any inquiries from external agencies. They will gather information and immediately communicate with the superintendent’s office, ensuring any situation is handled at the district level.

    •    Front office staff are instructed to screen all visitors, including federal agents, and direct them to wait outside or in the vestibule. They are not authorized to discuss students, staff, or any requests but will notify the building administrator immediately.

    •    Building administrators will verify credentials, gather relevant information, and ensure these matters are addressed at the district office. They will also promptly contact the superintendent’s office.

    •    All other staff are reminded to refrain from initiating discussions about immigration matters with students. If a student brings up these concerns, our staff is trained to listen with empathy, offer coping skills, and seek building leadership support when needed.

Additionally, at the secondary level, discussions about immigration in subjects like ELA and Social Studies will remain fact-based, politically neutral, and aligned with the curriculum.

Above all, we are guided by principles of respect, empathy, and confidentiality in all our interactions with students, families, and staff. We will always work closely with our legal team to ensure compliance with laws while upholding the highest ethical standards.

Our focus remains on providing a safe and nurturing learning environment where every student can thrive. We stand together as a community to support one another, and we are committed to ensuring that our schools remain a place where every child feels valued, respected, and protected.

Thank you for your trust and partnership. Let us continue working together to provide the best possible future for all our students.

Thank you and may God bless you.