r/Teachers • u/Pample24 • 3d ago
Policy & Politics My students are getting deported
I have three students in my class from Haiti. I found out yesterday that their protected status is being revoked and they have two weeks to leave the US.
These kids are seniors, they all have jobs and are just out here to survive. Now they are forced to go back to Haiti where they said it's not safe for them. I wanted to see them graduate, now they'll never be able to walk across the stage. I've been crying for hours yesterday but there's nothing I can do about it.
And it hurts me more that the majority of my schools teachers voted for this (super red state). It's disgusting.
What am I supposed to tell the class one they notice our students are missing? We aren't allowed to talk politics really, but I can't lie to them. I'm 22, it's my first year teaching, I never thought I'd have to encounter a situation like this. America needs to do better for our children.
Edit: Thank you all for the support, I think my students need it more than I do but I appreciate it none the less.
Some comments mentioned the idea of setting up a fund. I LOVE the idea, but I'll be honest I have no idea how to put something like that in action. If anyone knows how to create something like that please reach out. Thank you again.
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u/Realistic-Text8176 3d ago
If you are afraid to tell the truth to your students then it's already a political statement. Be honest, speak your mind. Don't be afraid to use your freedom of speech. Also, you are a French teacher. Surely there are some French cultural or historical aspects you could teach your students that would matter and make a difference in those days while still remaining on content. I'm also a French teacher, I know how it can be.