PHOENIX (AZFamily) — The Phoenix Union High School District is offering online learning options to families concerned about immigration enforcement following federal operations in Minneapolis neighborhoods.
Superintendent Thea Andrade said many families are feeling uneasy about having their children on campus or picking them up before and after school.
“There is a sense of anxiety out there, citizens or non-citizens, it doesn’t matter. Everyone is on edge. It’s like bracing for a storm,” Andrade said.
The district sent a letter to parents acknowledging the uncertainty facing families with mixed immigration status.
“We honor the widespread uncertainty facing our families with mixed immigration status at home,” the letter stated. “If you feel that an online learning environment is best for your student, we will work with you to ensure a smooth transition.”
Andrade said the recent events across the country make it important for communities to know their rights and options.
“I think in light of the recent events happening across our country it is really relevant now that our communities know their rights – know their options – feel supported in educating their children,” Andrade said.
She added that district leaders will continue supporting families during this time.
“I think our job as leaders is to keep talking to them – keep assuring them that we are going to do whatever it takes to support our community,” Andrade said.
Parents and educators said it is unfortunate that some students feel safer studying at home than going to school, but said that reflects the current reality.
Estaban Flemons, president of the Phoenix Union Classroom Teachers Association, said the Minneapolis operations have increased concerns for all families.
“I think that increases level of stress to all families that, depending on what you look like it may not matter if you are documented or undocumented or fifth generation – you may still be picked up that makes everyone more concerned about possibility of what’s going on – more so than we have had in the past,” Flemons said.
PXU Governing Board member Lizette Mier released this statement:
“As one of the leading districts in Arizona, Phoenix Union is reaffirming the beliefs of all public schools — that all students deserve a safe space to learn, and we will do what we can to support students, staff, and families during these uncertain times.
Phoenix Digital offers an opportunity for families that may feel unsafe leaving their homes in the wake of what we are seeing explode across Minneapolis and the country. Students enrolled in Phoenix Digital can still connect with friends and campus activities at a pace that they and their families feel more comfortable with.
Many students choose to enroll in Phoenix Digital for all kinds of reasons unique to their living and learning situations. Our district provides the technology needed to engage in online learning to ensure all students have this online opportunity.”
PXU Governing Board member Ceyshe Napa said, “Every student has a constitutional right to an education regardless of immigration status. I hold this responsibility strongly and am committed to ensure all students are welcomed and receive a quality PXU education. No one should live in fear of being detained, deported, or disappeared by ICE.”
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