The Fort Worth Independent School District (FWISD) launched an investigation into a substitute teacher following a controversial social media post suggesting that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) should visit North Side High School, a campus with a predominantly Hispanic student population. The comment sparked outrage and concern among students, parents, and community members, raising questions about the safety and inclusivity of the school environment.
Substitute Teacher’s Comment Ignites Controversy in Fort Worth School District
The incident unfolded in late January 2020, shortly after the Trump administration rescinded a policy that limited ICE arrests in sensitive locations, including schools. The substitute teacher, who remains unidentified, allegedly commented on a social media post about an ICE enforcement update, expressing frustration about students who did not speak English and relied on translation apps to communicate.
“I have many students that don’t even speak English,” the post read, according to a screenshot obtained by PEOPLE. “They have to communicate through their iPhone translator with me.” The comment concluded with a suggestion that ICE should visit the school.
North Side High School boasts a student body where 93% identify as Hispanic or Latino, according to CBS station KTVT. This demographic fact amplified the controversy surrounding the teacher’s comment, as it was perceived as targeting the school’s predominantly immigrant student population. The social media post in question has since been removed, and the user’s account has been made private.
Fort Worth ISD Responds to Community Concerns with Thorough Investigation
FWISD swiftly responded to the incident, issuing a statement on January 25th confirming their awareness of the social media post and announcing a thorough investigation. “We take this matter very seriously and are conducting a thorough investigation to understand the circumstances and ensure appropriate actions are taken,” the district stated. In accordance with district protocol, the substitute teacher was removed from campus pending the outcome of the investigation.
FWISD reiterated their commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for all students, emphasizing their dedication to addressing the matter effectively. “We are committed to maintaining a positive and supportive environment for all students,” the district stated in a subsequent communication. “We appreciate your patience and understanding as we address this matter.”
Local Officials and Community Leaders Address the Incident
Fort Worth Councilperson Carlos Flores, after being contacted by concerned constituents, reached out to FWISD leadership, including Interim Superintendent Dr. Karen Molinar and School Board President Roxanne Martinez. He confirmed that the district was taking the matter seriously and assured the community that he would remain informed and share updates as they became available.
“They are aware and assured me that FWISD is taking this matter very seriously and is investigating,” Flores stated. “As the post espouses views concerning our students and their families, I will personally stay informed and share information with our community as it becomes available.” This proactive communication aimed to reassure the community and demonstrate a commitment to transparency.
Student Fear and Anxiety in the Wake of the Controversy
The incident coincided with a period of heightened tension and anxiety surrounding immigration policies. Protests against the Trump administration’s policies were taking place across the country, and the substitute teacher’s comment further fueled fear among students and families in Fort Worth.
Students expressed their concerns to local news outlets, highlighting their fear and vulnerability. “They say they want criminals, but they come to our schools,” Fort Worth ISD student Angel Sanchez told ABC affiliate WFAA. “We just want a better education. That’s the main reason why our parents came here in the first place.”
A school counselor reported that some students were so afraid that they stayed home from school in the days following the incident. “I know this little girl, she’s a teenager, she’s about 16,” counselor Fernando Raga told CBS News Texas. “And she hasn’t wanted to come out of her house … They come to school to get a better life. And now they don’t want to do that because they’re afraid.” This underscores the significant emotional impact of the controversy on the student body.
FAQs Regarding the Incident
Q: What was the specific comment made by the substitute teacher?
A: The exact wording of the comment is not publicly available, but reports indicate it expressed frustration with non-English speaking students and suggested ICE should visit the school.
Q: Has the teacher been identified?
A: No, the Fort Worth ISD has not released the teacher’s name.
Q: What disciplinary actions have been taken?
A: The teacher was removed from campus pending the investigation. Further actions will be determined based on the investigation’s findings.
Q: How has the school district responded to the incident?
A: FWISD launched a thorough investigation and reiterated its commitment to a positive and supportive environment for all students.
Q: What is the demographic makeup of North Side High School?
A: Approximately 93% of the students at North Side High School identify as Hispanic or Latino. This makes the cultural context of the teacher’s alleged comment even more sensitive.
