A Fort Worth Independent School District substitute teacher is under investigation after allegedly urging Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to visit North Side High School regarding non-English speaking students.
The incident emerged when the substitute teacher responded to an ICE social media post on January 23rd. In their comment, they wrote that ICE should come to the school, noting they had "many students who don't even speak English" in 10th and 11th grades who communicate using iPhone translators.
The school district immediately launched an investigation upon learning of the social media post. "We take this matter very seriously and are conducting a thorough investigation," the district stated. The substitute teacher has been removed from campus during the inquiry.
Dr. Karen Molinar, FWISD Interim Superintendent, emphasized that the district does not collect information about students' immigration status. She reassured families that Fort Worth ISD remains committed to providing safe, welcoming schools for all students regardless of background.
Fort Worth City Council Member Carlos Flores expressed disappointment about the incident. "I was shocked...there is a level of trust that is necessary between a teacher and students," said Flores, whose district includes North Side High School.
The controversy comes as the Department of Homeland Security recently ended restrictions on ICE operations near schools, hospitals, and places of worship. Hispanic students make up approximately two-thirds of Fort Worth public schools' population, with over one-third of students learning English as an additional language.
School Board President Roxanne Martinez addressed parent concerns, stating they are "committed to resolving it as quickly as possible." The district has not publicly identified the substitute teacher while the investigation continues.