A Message from Superintendent Greg Baker

Dear students, families, staff and community,

Like many communities across the country, we are feeling the impact of immigration enforcement. We have students and families throughout our district who have been affected—both directly and indirectly—by the apprehension or detention of parents, guardians, friends and relatives. These experiences can create significant emotional, financial and educational challenges for the children and families involved.

Thank you to those who have reached out and asked what you can do to help.

I want to highlight some ways our staff and community are providing support for our students and families and share ways you can help, if you are so inclined.
It’s important to emphasize that the work we are doing is intentionally quiet and behind the scenes, because it is in direct response to families’ requests; we’re centering their wishes.

Our district’s family engagement team, in collaboration with schools, are providing:

• intensive direct support, both in person and by phone, to help navigate families’ fears and concerns of deportation. We hold meetings for families with a variety of community partners, including immigration attorneys and local law enforcement. We answer questions, clarify government roles and their rights, and provide guidance in preparing emergency plans in case of detention. 
• financial support through community partners. Families share with us that what they need most are funds to survive. Many have lost their jobs, or their primary breadwinner has been deported, and it’s impossible for them to pay rent, buy food or cover basic bills. Just as we would with any family in crisis, we help connect families with resources for rent, legal costs, food, gas, clothing, school-related fees and other essential needs. At this moment, financial assistance is the most urgent need. For those who have asked how you can help, please consider donating to the Bellingham Public Schools Foundation’s family support fund.
• home deliveries. We deliver food and personal care items directly to families, especially to those who are not leaving home due to fear and anxiety. You can make financial donations or give goods through our district’s Family Resource Center (FRC), supported by a non-profit Friends of the FRC. 

I’m so proud of our community, volunteers and staff for their focus: love, humanity and generosity, and we are grateful to anyone who helps our most vulnerable families get resources they need.

Greg Baker