HASD bracing for new immigration policy
Last Tuesday, the Trump administration authorized immigration enforcement in schools, churches, and other sensitive spots.
The Hazleton Area School District says it's preparing to protect its students from possible immigration arrest following the new federal policy under President Trump.
One Hazleton woman 28/22 News spoke with is afraid of what's to come.
'It's a nightmare right now. I can tell you,' Little All Stars Care Center Owner Ivelisse Eufracio Childs said.
Ivelisse works with children every day. She runs Little All Stars Care Center in Hazleton.
She's also Dominican, a grandmother, and legally a United States citizen for 33 years.
'It's a little frustrating,' Ivelisse added.
Frustrating to know that last Tuesday the Trump administration cleared the way for immigration arrests to take place at or near schools, churches, or hospitals.
'There's a fine line between educating a child on what could happen, and scaring a child to death,' said Hazleton Area School Board member Dr. Bob Childs.
Bob is Ivelisse's husband and a member of the Hazleton area school board.
'Our administration is very aware and sensitive to the whole issue,' Bob explained.
But they are not just aware, they are also being active with different community groups.
Hazleton Area Superintendent Dr. Brian Uplinger released the following statement:
Our top priority as educators is to provide every student with a safe and supportive environment where they can thrive academically and personally. The Hazelton Area School District (HASD) is aware of the recent Department of Homeland Security directive permitting ICE enforcement at schools and is proactively developing internal protocols to address this matter. We are actively consulting with the Pennsylvania Department of Education, legal experts, neighboring school districts, community organizations, and our own teachers, staff, and families to create a thoughtful and comprehensive plan that prioritizes the well-being and safety of our students.
Hazleton Area Superintendent Dr. Brian Uplinger
More than 60% of the Hazleton Area School District is made up of Hispanic students.
'And my concern is that they are little kids. They aren't criminals,' said PTA president at Heights-Terrace Elementary/Middle School Betsy Durso.
The road ahead is one the school district is bracing itself for and one Ivelisse hopes can stand together for the sake of its students.
'It's sad but I hope our community any kind of organization that we have here try to work together,' Ivelisse continued.
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