Roosevelt High school returned to school this week after experiencing a chaotic interaction with ICE last week right outside the school during dismissal. The students have returned to a warm welcome from staff and administration.
Each morning as we drive into the school’s parking lot we are greeted by warm smiles and waves from community members including one who shared “This act came from a community group that wanted to come support the school, we organize watching grounds and protecting students as they enter and leave school.”
Principal Ledesma shared a video with all classes addressing the ICE event that resulted in two days of no school last week. In this video, he speaks in both Spanish and English. He reassured Roosevelt students of their safety in the classroom. Optional lessons are being provided throughout the week for students wherein they can learn about many different things that may be of help during this time.
Last Wednesday when Roosevelt fell victim to an ICE event. Many people were witnesses including community members, staff and students. In many videos and pictures published online we see our Roosevelt staff standing up and protecting our school and community. You can see and feel their courage and care through the images alone.
During their “duty hours” they were harrased for doing their job, which includes keeping students and staff safe. Many staff attempted to place themselves between agents and students while emotions were high and many things were happening.
Our teachers were harassed and pushed around. The agents fired chemical weapons at the crowd which included students, staff and community members. ICE agents attacked our teachers. They were pulled to the ground even after showing their hands in the air. They were simply just yelling and protecting themselves and their students.
Looking out for their students, the MPS district cancelled two days of school last week after the traumatizing incident.
As a RHS student I am proud to say that I am a part of Teddy Nation. I am also proud to be a part of a school community where staff will protect their students at any cost. I am especially proud to be a part of a school that stays united during the hardest of times.
For many students, school and teachers can be one of the only stable things in a student’s life. Each and every day students are not the only people who show up, the teachers and admin show up for the students and become the constant in kids’ lives.
The Roosevelt Student community thanks our staff for their bravery, resilience, perseverance and commitment to all of us, the school, and our community.
