A Watsonville elementary school teacher posted a pro-ICE comment on social media shortly after a local ICE arrest. The post spread widely in an immigrant community, and the teacher was placed on paid administrative leave.

Watsonville’s schools serve overwhelmingly Latino and immigrant families. For many students, ICE is not an abstract political issue—it is a source of real fear.

When an educator publicly celebrates immigration enforcement actions, it can undermine trust and create a sense of hostility for students whose families are directly impacted. Schools must be places where all children feel safe, respected, and supported—especially those already living with uncertainty.

This petition is not about policing opinions. It is about accountability, professional responsibility, and the well-being of students.

Community members are calling on the Pajaro Valley Unified School District Board of Trustees and the Superintendent to take this incident seriously, assess whether the teacher’s conduct violated district values, and ensure that school environments remain safe and welcoming for immigrant families.

Protecting students must come first.

Sign if you agree that schools should be places of trust—not fear.