This conversation explores the profound impact of recent immigration policy changes on teachers and students, focusing on the emotional and practical challenges faced in educational settings. Panelists discuss the anxiety and fear stemming from the potential presence of immigration agents in schools, the importance of clear communication and support systems, and strategies for creating safe spaces for students. The discussion highlights the importance of collaboration among educators, community organizations, and school leadership in effectively navigating these challenges.

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Jehan Hakim is a mother and Houston-based educational consultant with over a decade of experience in empowering educators and organizational leaders through culturally responsive pedagogy and professional development.

Jen Schwanke, Ed.D., has been an educator for almost three decades, teaching or leading at all levels. She is the author of four books published by ASCD, including The Principal’s Guide to Conflict Management, and has published hundreds of articles in various education publications. In addition to providing professional development to districts in the areas of school climate, personnel, and instructional leadership, Schwanke presents at conferences for ASCD, NAESP, NASSP, AASA, and various state and local education organizations. She is the co-host of the popular “Principal Matters” podcast and an instructor in educational administration at The Ohio State University and Miami University of Ohio. Dr. Schwanke currently serves as a Deputy Superintendent in Ohio.–

Kenya Bustos Diaz is a freshman ENL Teacher From Veracruz, Mexico, DACA recipient. Social Justice Mentor for Future Teachers of Color at Butler University Bachelor’s Degree in Secondary Education from Butler University.

Dara Laws Savage is a 26-year educator from the great state of Delaware. She has served on numerous local, regional, and state committees, and has been Teacher of the Year in two different districts. She is an Emeritus national faculty member of PBLWorks, and is presently the English 9 teacher and Instructional Coach at the Early College High School at Delaware State University while working on her doctorate. Dara is a proud Board of Education member for the Seaford School District (alumna) and she is the owner of Savage Educational Consulting.

Tom Rademacher has spent the last two decades devoted to students and education. He’s the author of 50 Strategies for Learning without Screens, It Won’t Be Easy, Raising Ollie, and the forthcoming chapter book series Bucket and Friends. Tom was named Minnesota’s 2014 Teacher of the Year, and before teaching mostly wrote bad poetry and talked about Kurt Cobain. He lives too close to the Mall of America in Minnesota with his wife, son, and absolute chonk of a dog.