At the end of the 24-25 school year, students at Hamilton grew increasingly anxious as rumors spread about ICE raiding neighborhood Home Depot lots, restaurants, and car washes, and even entering school campuses.
In late May of last semester, concerns centered around immigration were heightened as rumors spread regarding ICE coming onto campuses and starting raids. There were many policy scares and executive orders sprouting out within each state. By June 6, many people were reported missing or not being picked up from school, scaring many as their worst fears came to life.
Hamilton’s English Language Development teacher, Mr. Villalta, taught in a classroom right next to the North Gate at the time. He said he noticed a lot of fear and worry from his students, many of whom are immigrants.
“Mostly it’s about students being scared about coming to school,” he said. “Now they stay at home.”
The fear caused a distraction in his classroom. “Kids were scared about it, so they were looking out the window.”
The school ended up moving his classroom to the Tech building for this school year. Although most of his students were worried about being targeted last year, he says there is a visible improvement in their behaviors after moving classrooms. “They are more comfortable now,” he noted. “Now they feel more secure.”
The fear explained by Mr. Villalta wasn’t limited to just his classroom. Throughout the Hamilton campus, teachers and staff said they can feel the fear through student engagement and attendance. Since last spring, more students are missing school, and the shift in emotion is noticeable.
Ms. Herrera, one of Hamilton’s assistant principals who also oversees counseling, said she has also noticed the tension settling in the students. “I can’t confirm if it’s due to [the immigration policies] but I can only assume that everyone is on edge and concerned and worried whether it’s for themselves or for a family member or for a friend.”
Humanities teacher Ms. Salazar also expressed concern for her Hispanic students. She said she wanted to be able to help her students with any outside problems. “I am willing to go to the market to buy groceries for their families or connect them with an organization that can assist them with legal help,” she said.
In response to the fears of students and staff, Principal Ms. Baxter has implemented some protective policies and safety measures around campus to help people feel safe and seen. “I have directed my staff to ensure that all gates are secure during the school day,” she said. “We have protocols for visitors … all visitors need to show ID and all visitors are triaged through our parent centers.”
She explains that there are multiple updates being sent to families regarding possible ICE activity and safety measures being practiced on and off campus in order to best support the school community during this time. “I have a weekly newsletter that I send out to families, and I really try to tell our students and families that everyone is welcome here regardless of status.”
Students who need assistance can access support through LAUSD’s Extended Support Sites (ESS) for Region West. Call (310)914-2100 if you have any student or family needs. Psychiatric social workers, the well-being center, and staff will also always be available if you need to talk to someone.
Christian Saldana and Noa Magaña contributed reporting to this article.
