Winooski, Vermont, home to a diverse school district, is known for its efforts to protect immigrant students. In a class at Winooski High School, students, originating from a variety of countries and speaking multiple languages, shared their feelings of safety. They expressed relief knowing the school’s doors are locked and that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers are not allowed on school premises.
The security felt by these students comes amid a challenging backdrop. The federal government, particularly during the second Trump administration, has increased scrutiny on schools’ diversity efforts and has rolled back policies that previously protected students from ICE while on school grounds. In response, many districts have become cautious, but Winooski has taken a bold stance. Superintendent Wilmer Chavarria has led the district in adopting a sanctuary policy to safeguard students from immigration enforcement on campus.
Chavarria, who has experienced detention by immigration officials himself, has been vocal against some federal mandates. Last year, the district refused to comply with a Trump administration order related to the federal ban on diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts in schools. This reaction followed a series of direct impacts from federal policies, including an incident where a second grader and their mother were detained by immigration authorities.
The district’s defiance has not come without backlash. After raising the Somali flag on school grounds, the district was inundated with racist threats. Despite such challenges and the risk of losing federal funding, which constitutes a small percentage of its budget, Chavarria remains steadfast in his commitment to protecting immigrant students. He emphasizes the importance of standing up for the district’s values, regardless of potential financial repercussions.
Winooski, one of Vermont’s most diverse districts, is a designated refugee resettlement area and has become a haven for families fleeing conflict. The district’s sanctuary policy, which prevents the sharing of student data with immigration officials and restricts access to campus without a judicial warrant, has been influential at the state level. Vermont has since enacted similar requirements for all its school districts.
The support for Winooski’s policies from the community is evident. Parents and community members have articulated their pride in the district’s leadership and initiatives. Teachers have also taken active roles, assisting students whose families fear detention. The district’s efforts underscore a broader mission to ensure a safe and inclusive environment for all students, regardless of their immigration status.
In a time of divisive politics, Winooski School District continues to champion the rights and safety of its diverse student body, setting a precedent for similar initiatives across the state.
Source: The Hechinger Report
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