Chicago Teacher Placed on Leave Following Pro-ICE Social Media Post
A teacher at Gary Elementary School in Chicago has been suspended after sharing support for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents on social media, sparking significant community backlash and allegations of a double standard in the school district's disciplinary approach.
Community Outrage and Calls for Dismissal
The unnamed educator wrote 'GO ICE' under a Facebook post last week, a message that quickly ignited fury within West Chicago's predominantly Hispanic community. The controversy escalated rapidly, with parents and local residents demanding the teacher's immediate dismissal.
More than a hundred community members gathered at a West Chicago City Council meeting to voice their anger. 'At home we teach our children to be respectful to the teachers, and then we expect the same, for the teachers to be respectful,' one parent told ABC7 during the heated gathering.
Another attendee questioned the broader implications of the teacher's stance, asking 'Where is the due process for all the people who are being kidnapped on the streets?' during the emotional meeting.
Petition and Investigation Process
A Change.org petition calling for the teacher's dismissal has gained traction, accusing the educator of 'disrupting the emotional welfare' of students. Community members expressed deep concerns about the teacher's continued presence in the school.
One petition signatory wrote: 'I will not send my child to a school that has teachers who are brainwashed by the gestapo. I'd sooner find a new country.' Another commented: 'The fact that he is still teaching at the school, and its Hispanic students and he's making comments about supporting ICE, is very scary and concerning to me - I wouldn't trust him around these kids.'
Superintendent Kristina Davis confirmed that the district has obtained legal counsel to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident. In an email to families, Davis stated: 'The district will share additional information as appropriate. District 33 remains committed to providing safe, caring, and inclusive learning environments for all students.'
Resignation Withdrawn and Administrative Leave
The teacher initially submitted a resignation on Friday before any investigation could commence, but subsequently withdrew the resignation before the school board could approve it. This led to the educator being placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation.
Davis explained the decision: 'Following a meeting with District administration today, the employee involved has been placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation and will not be permitted on any District property while on leave.'
The superintendent acknowledged that the teacher's social media post had 'raised concerns and caused disruption for students, families, and staff,' adding: 'We want to ensure our schools are safe spaces, and we look forward to seeing all students back in school tomorrow.'
Allegations of Double Standards
The incident has sparked allegations of a double standard within Chicago's educational system regarding the treatment of teachers with conservative viewpoints. Critics have pointed to the case of educator Lucy Martinez, who was allowed to keep her position last year despite being filmed mocking the assassination of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk.
Conservative commentator Jen Illini highlighted this apparent discrepancy, writing on social media: 'Teacher placed on leave for saying "GO ICE". Meanwhile, this (Chicago Public Schools) teacher who went viral for mocking Charlie Kirk's assassination? No leave. No consequences.'
Political Response and Community Impact
Illinois State Senator Karina Villa has been among the prominent critics of the unnamed teacher, stating that the educator failed to 'create a safe and welcoming environment for all.' Villa declared she stands in 'unwavering solidarity' with families upset by the social media post, describing the show of support for ICE as 'disturbing.'
The controversy continues to unfold as the investigation proceeds, with the school district facing pressure from multiple directions while attempting to maintain educational continuity and community trust.
