Imagine waking up to find out your child’s school is closed due to a nationwide protest—a move that’s sparking both solidarity and controversy across communities. But here’s where it gets controversial: Several schools in Tucson Unified School District (TUSD) have confirmed closures for Friday, January 30, as the district grapples with a surge in staff absences. And this is the part most people miss—it’s not just about a day off; it’s tied to a larger movement. KGUN 9 has verified that the following schools will remain shut: Davis-Romero Magnet School, Drachman Montessori, Gale Elementary, Hollinger K-8, Johnson Primary, Manzo Elementary, Mary Meredith K-12, McCorkle K-8, Oyama Elementary, Palo Verde High School, Pistor Middle School, Pueblo High School, Roskruge Bilingual K-8, Sahuaro High School, Sam Hughes Elementary, Secrist Middle School, Tucson High Magnet School, University High School, Van Buskirk Elementary, Warren Elementary, and White Elementary.
Southern Arizona’s largest school district is canceling classes at these locations, citing an unprecedented number of teacher absences. According to a TUSD spokesperson, many educators took personal days on Friday, aligning with the nationwide ‘No Work. No School. No Shopping.’ economic blackout. This movement aims to protest Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection actions in Minnesota, where hundreds of businesses closed last week as employees joined public demonstrations.
Here’s the bold truth: The protest isn’t just about Minnesota—it’s personal for Tucson too. Jim Byrne, President of the Tucson Education Association, highlights that recent ICE operations near schools, including one outside Drachman Magnet, have left parents and students feeling unsafe. ‘We’ve heard families are opting for remote learning because they don’t feel secure,’ Byrne explained. While TUSD prohibits political activities on campus, staff are free to participate in protests off-duty, adding another layer of complexity to the situation.
Gabriel Trujillo, TUSD Superintendent, sent a letter to families on Thursday, acknowledging the high volume of staff absences and emphasizing the district’s priority to maintain a safe learning environment. ‘If we can’t ensure proper supervision, we may have to cancel classes,’ the letter stated, noting that preschool and before/after-school programs could also be affected. Food services, however, will remain available at all school sites.
But here’s the question that’s dividing opinions: Is closing schools for a protest a justified act of solidarity, or does it unfairly disrupt students’ education? Some argue it’s a necessary stand against unjust policies, while others worry about the impact on families and learning. What’s your take? Let us know in the comments—this is a conversation that needs your voice.
