Dear Craig,
I know how heavy these times can feel. When I was a principal of a PK-5 school in Boston, I’ll never forget the day a third-grade Haitian immigrant student asked me, through tears, if I would let federal agents take her from our school. Her fear was palpable, and so was mine. That moment clarified my role as not just an educator but as a protector of hope, safety, and dignity.
Today, with the rise of ICE raids across the nation, many of our students, families, and staff are looking to us for reassurance, guidance, and care. These moments require brave leadership. They demand compassion, clarity, and intentional action.
To support you as you navigate these challenges, I’ve created a comprehensive guide tailored for school leaders like you. This guide is filled with actionable tools, resources, and strategies to help you:
✅ Empower students with knowledge of their rights and emotional resilience.
✅ Support families with safety plans and connections to advocacy resources.
✅ Foster confidence and care among your staff with wellness practices and training.
✅ Build a network of care by collaborating with community organizations.
✅ Lead with courage, clear communication, and mindfulness during these times.
This isn’t just a guide—it’s a reminder that you’re not alone in this. Together, we can create sanctuaries in our schools where every child and family feels safe, valued, and seen.
