Immigration Fears Disrupt LA School Openings as Parents Skip Drop-Offs
Immigration Fears Disrupt LA School Openings as Parents Skip Drop-Offs
The start of the new academic year in the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) has been marred by widespread fear among immigrant families, leading to noticeable absences on the first day of classes. Despite the usual excitement, a significant number of parents opted to miss drop-offs due to ongoing immigration enforcement actions and recent incidents.
The trepidation follows increased immigration raids throughout the summer and a particularly concerning event this past Monday, August 11, when a 15-year-old special needs student, Nathan Mejia, was briefly detained by federal agents outside Arleta High School. Although Mejia, a U.S. citizen, was released following a bystander’s intervention and confirmed mistaken identity, the incident has deeply traumatized the community and amplified anxieties.
LAUSD Superintendent Alberto Carvalho has moved swiftly to address these fears, reassuring families that schools are designated safe spaces. On Thursday, August 14, Carvalho reiterated the district’s commitment, stating, “Our schools are safe spaces, I guarantee it. No one will have entry into our schools without a judicial order. We will protect our kids, we will protect our communities.” The district is implementing strengthened safety measures, expanded mental health resources, and free legal services for families. Carvalho also urged immigration authorities to avoid enforcement activities within a two-block radius of schools during peak hours.
Teachers and parents alike are vocalizing their concerns. Jennifer Cortez, a teacher in East Los Angeles, held a sign declaring her school a ‘safe space for immigrants,’ emphasizing the right of every child to education regardless of status. Parents like Anna Bermudez expressed heartbreak over the necessity of feeling unsafe while bringing children to school. The district continues to work with local law enforcement to create a ‘rapid response’ network to disseminate information and encourage attendance, striving to ensure no child misses out on education due to fear.
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