Spike in Absenteeism Among Hispanic Students in Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools
Amidst a backdrop of heightened immigration enforcement, Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools (WS/FCS) witnessed a significant increase in absences among Hispanic students. The surge in absenteeism coincides with recent Border Patrol operations in Charlotte.
Reports indicate that nearly 3,000 Hispanic students were absent on Monday, more than double the number compared to two weeks earlier. While Hispanic students represent roughly a third of the student population, they accounted for over half of all absences. This increase aligns with growing concerns over the presence of immigration enforcement officials throughout the state.
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools also experienced a significant number of absences, with over 30,000 students not attending at the start of the week, reflecting widespread apprehension among families.
In response, WS/FCS communicated with parents, emphasizing that the district does not monitor the citizenship status of its students and families. Moreover, the district assured parents that law enforcement officers would require proper identification and legal documentation to enter school premises. The school district encourages families to contact school principals if they have any questions or concerns.
