Dear Sisters and Brothers
As you know, President Trump's immigration policy is having a negative impact on our students and their families. His directive for ICE agents to disregard our schools as safe spaces is a threat to the well-being of our students and the Hempstead community. Schools across Long Island are seeing an increase in student absences due to the fear of being arrested and/or deported.
As educators, we have a responsibility to teach and protect every student in our care. To prepare for the enforcement of President Trump's immigration policies, below are a few helpful resources provided by the American Federation of Teachers (AFT):
- AFT's Immigration page is regularly updated with resources for both union members and families
- AFT's Resources for parents who may face deportation
- AFTs Protecting Our Students and Families Toolkit in English and Spanish
A teacher in another school district was recently removed from her position for allegedly posting inappropriate comments about President Trump on social media. I want to take this moment to remind you of the district's Social Media Policy (#1921). While you have every right to express your political views and opinions, as an educator, what you say, write and/or post in public forums, deemed to be inappropriate, could lead to disciplinary action. I have attached the district's social media policy for you to review.
As always, if you have any questions or concerns, see your building representative(s) or contact one of the officers.
