Bulldogs Newsletter October 2, 2023
From Basswood's Principal
Dear Basswood Families,
Recent events in the Basswood area have raised some questions regarding our school’s handling of nearby ICE action. Before I get into details, understandably these recent events have further increased the fear and anxiety many of us were already experiencing. I appreciate the care and concern that’s been raised on behalf of our Basswood scholars and families.
First and foremost, student safety is our top priority. As always, we have a shared interest in keeping all students from harm.
Our school received a report of ICE activity midday Wednesday. No students were outside, but our school team continued to monitor school grounds and review visuals via cameras. No team member saw any ICE activity, but heard shortly later from a community member that ICE had been there and already left.
Students were already inside that afternoon due to the extremely slippery conditions on our playground. To ensure that students did not experience slip / fall injuries, students were kept inside even though the temperatures were warm enough for outdoor play.
Since our team didn’t confirm current ICE activity and students were already inside the building, a move to "Secure" protocol was not required. If a decision was made to initiate a "Secure," communications would have been sent to families.
Our normal dismissal process was able to be followed with this information.
The next day, our school grounds were further monitored, which included going to an impacted nearby neighborhood several times that morning.
As our district has shared, Basswood follows established protocols with regard to any ICE activity near or on school property. Here is a link for further details. In addition, district leadership and principals are in frequent conversation as we navigate this new and dynamic situation.
There will be an opportunity to learn more about our response protocols, share your concerns, and ask questions at our next PTO meeting. This meeting was impacted by the weather-related closure and will be rescheduled for the near future. Please watch for information next week. Of course if you’d like to discuss anything in the meantime I’d be happy to have a conversation with you.
Again, thank you for your continued support of our school, scholars and each other. Please note, I can’t say enough, the district and myself most certainly understand the importance of keeping our students safe. I look forward to our continued partnership.
Steven Schwartz
Basswood Principal
#WeAreBasswood!
