Concerns over student safety and inclusivity took center stage at the Pomona Unified School District Board meeting on May 7, 2025. Parents and students voiced urgent issues that could significantly impact the school community.

One parent, Valerie Acevedo, raised alarm over the potential presence of ICE agents on campus after hours, questioning the safety of students and families. She expressed her frustration regarding the principal's decisions, suggesting possible misconduct and a failure to prioritize student welfare. "The principal's decision puts the district at great risk and is against PUSD's mission of putting children's academics first," Acevedo stated, urging board members to investigate the matter thoroughly.

In a powerful shift to a more positive note, Valeria Acevedo, a senior at I Poly, highlighted the need for greater acceptance of students with autism. Drawing from her personal experience with siblings in PUSD schools, she emphasized that autistic students often face bullying and social isolation. "They deserve acceptance, not just awareness," she asserted, advocating for programs that foster inclusion, such as a peer buddy system to connect neurotypical students with their autistic peers.

The discussions underscored a critical need for the district to address both safety concerns and the emotional well-being of all students. As the board considers these pressing issues, the community awaits meaningful actions that prioritize the safety and inclusivity of every student in Pomona.