Woodburn School Board narrowly approves Safe and Welcoming Schools resolution at tense board meeting

The Woodburn School Board has approved a ‘Safe and Welcoming Schools’ resolution, which is designed to protect students regardless of their immigration status, following an emotionally charged meeting filled with community protests. Initially, the board had rejected a similar resolution, which led to misinformation spreading online and calls for the resignations of dissenting board members. The board's majority had expressed concern over the potential risks to federal funding, which contributed to the initial 2-3 vote against the resolution. However, after significant community pressure, the board revisited the issue and ultimately passed the original resolution on a narrow 3-1-1 vote. The resolution emphasizes the right of all students to attend school safely and seeks to eliminate barriers related to immigration fears.

Although largely symbolic and not changing existing policies, advocates argue it is a vital step for the community, which is predominantly immigrant. The meeting revealed deep divisions among board members and the community, with passionate testimonies highlighting the urgency of the issue. This development signifies a notable moment in the ongoing discourse surrounding immigration and education in Woodburn, Oregon.