Dear Terra Nova Families, Students, and Staff,
Building on our message from January 11, we recognize that the sense of uncertainty many are feeling has intensified due to recent events in Minnesota.
We believe that schools play a critical role in fostering environments that are safe, supportive and conducive to learning. Schools must remain welcoming spaces where all students can learn, grow and thrive, regardless of immigration status or family circumstances. Schools must be empowered to focus on students' academic, social, emotional, and career development without external forces that compromise the sense of stability.
Terra Nova School urges local, state and federal leaders to uphold policies that protect all children and ensure families can participate fully in their schools and communities without fear. Terra Nova School calls on policymakers to enact and enforce measures that safeguard children, uphold family unity and preserve the trust essential to education.
Escalations in Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations have caused widespread disruption in school communities in Minnesota. Living with persistent fear and grief can constitute adverse childhood experiences (ACES) with consequences that may follow students into adulthood.
Increasingly, families and students have asked questions about how Terra Nova staff will respond if there were an ICE presence on or near our campus. Be assured that staff have trained on how to handle such occurrences and will do their very best to reinforce the legal limitations of ICE in regards to schools. Terra Nova is dedicated to maintaining an environment for learning where the focus remains on the inherent right to feel safe, and we are committed to defending the integrity of this space.
Additionally, Terra Nova has a robust crisis management plan and training provided via the I Love You Guys Foundation. For more specific information about Terra Nova crisis management plans, click HERE for the Standard Response Protocol Handout and click HERE for the Standard Response Protocol Poster.
Please continue to hold space for your children at home to help them process their thoughts. In conversation with your child, if specific fears are expressed, please reach out to your child’s advisor or our school counseling department. We recognize that these conversations can be difficult, and we are committed to supporting you in this process. By working in tandem, we reinforce the stability and belonging that define the Terra Nova experience.
With respect & gratitude,
Terra Nova School
*Resources HERE