Since Donald Trump took office as the 47th President of the United States, fear of displacement has grown among immigrant students. His administration’s hardline policies—prioritizing mass deportations and rescinding the Sensitive Locations policy—have intensified anxiety within communities, including schools. Amid this climate of uncertainty, local school districts are grappling with how to support their immigrant student populations.
In Oregon, the Woodburn School Board recently voted down a resolution that would have publicly affirmed support for immigrant students, despite the district’s predominantly Latino and Hispanic population. The resolution aimed to declare Woodburn schools as welcoming spaces where all children, regardless of immigration status, have the right to a free public education. However, it failed in a narrow 2-3 vote, as reported by Associated Press.
What’s the reason behind the vote?
Could it be that some board members feared issuing a formal statement on immigrant students’ rights and protections could put federal funding at risk? According to the Associated Press, some board members were concerned that publicly addressing the issue could jeopardize federal funding for the district.
Despite the vote, Superintendent Larios reassured the community that the district remains committed to supporting immigrant students. He emphasized that existing protocols are in place to protect students and urged the board to stand behind a unified message of inclusion, as reported by the Associated Press.
The decision caught community members and union leaders off guard, with many expressing disappointment. The vote has sparked debate, with some arguing that a public statement would have reassured vulnerable students and families during a time of heightened uncertainty. Meanwhile, others believe the board must balance advocacy with the potential risks of losing crucial federal funds. The vote highlights the ongoing challenges school districts face in navigating immigration policies under the Trump administration.
