January 7, 2026
We, the undersigned Vermont school district, write to express our strong support and solidarity with the Winooski School District following the detention of a second-grade student and his mother by federal immigration authorities. The Winooski School District and Superintendent Wilmer Chavarria’s rapid, compassionate response — mobilizing community resources, legal assistance, and financial aid — demonstrates a remarkable commitment to student safety, dignity, and well-being.
We also commend Winooski for standing firm in the face of hateful backlash — most recently, after raising a Somali flag on public school grounds to show support for Somali students and families.
In doing so, Winooski upheld the values that guide public education in Vermont:
Protection of students’ welfare and sense of belonging. By raising the Somali flag, Winooski visibly affirmed that Somali students and residents are welcome, valued, and part of the school community — even when that act provoked fear and intimidation.
Defense of inclusive and equitable education. The district’s willingness to stand with its immigrant families and refugees demonstrates leadership in ensuring that no student’s sense of dignity or safety is eroded by external hostility.
Commitment to moral courage and community solidarity. Choosing to stand against racism and xenophobia — even at the risk of backlash — exemplifies the deeply held principle that schools are places of refuge, support, and unconditional care.
We believe Winooski’s actions send a powerful message: that public schools have a duty not only to educate, but to protect and uplift every child, regardless of background, ancestry, or nationality. Especially in times of political and social tension, such leadership is essential.
Therefore, we pledge our solidarity with the Winooski School District. We stand ready to collaborate on statewide support efforts, to amplify the message of inclusion, and to advocate for the safety, dignity, and education of all Vermont students.
We further urge all responsible authorities — at local, state, and federal levels — to prioritize the safe and swift reunification of separated families, and to acknowledge the severe emotional and educational consequences that immigration enforcement actions impose on children and communities.
Vermont’s educational community stands firmly with the Winooski School District — unified in purpose and unwavering in our commitment to protect every child’s right to learn, grow, and thrive.
With respect and solidarity,
The Hartford School Board
Nancy Russell, Chair
Cathy Lemire, Clerk
Kevin Christie
Garrett Wilson
Jeremy Warren
The Sharon Academy
White River Valley Supervisory Board
Jamie Kinnarney: Superintendent
Vermont School Districts who have written their own letters of support for Winooski:
The Essex Westford School Board
Mountain Views Supervisory Union School Board
Windham Northeast Supervisory Union School Board
Cheryl Charles, Chair
Cathy Siano-Goodwin
Karen Blanchard
Paul Obuchowski
Christopher Kibbe
Hardy Merrill
Lynn Morgan
Rick Holloway
Caitlin Deschenes-Desmond
Windsor Southeast Supervisory Union
