The Middletown City School Board convened on February 13, 2025, to address pressing concerns regarding student safety and community well-being amid rising tensions surrounding immigration issues. The meeting began with a recap of a previous resolution adopted by the Common Council, which emphasized the protection of residents' safety and legal rights. This resolution was prompted by recent visits from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in the area.

During the meeting, community members voiced their concerns about the impact of these immigration enforcement actions on students and families, particularly those who are undocumented. Vanessa, a Middletown High School graduate, urged the board to support a resolution from the New York State Teachers Association aimed at safeguarding students and faculty from potential raids. She highlighted the emotional toll these threats have on students, noting that many live in fear of their families being targeted.

Paula Martinez, a parent of two students, echoed these sentiments, sharing her personal experience with her ninth grader's emotional distress due to the current climate. She called for the board's support in passing the resolution to ensure the safety and emotional well-being of all students and community members.

The board acknowledged the importance of these discussions, with members indicating that they have been considering these issues for several months. They committed to reviewing the proposed resolution and exploring ways to provide support for students who may be affected by these circumstances.

As the meeting concluded, the board expressed gratitude for the community's engagement and reiterated their commitment to fostering a safe and inclusive environment for all students. Further discussions and actions regarding the resolution are anticipated in upcoming meetings.