The Milwaukee Public School Board unanimously voted yes to safe haven schools, more commonly known as sanctuary schools.
The resolution is designed to make schools safer for undocumented families. It bans immigration agents from schools and gives teachers and staff resources to support immigrant and refugee students and their families.
It was an emotional night many including Superintendent Dr. Darienne Driver.
"This is a very proud moment I believe for this district and for this community," he said.
Two board members shared stories about living as undocumented families. Dr. Tatiana Joseph came from Costa Rica as a child.
"In my young mind I never understood what that meant, but lived in fear," Joseph said.
Hundreds of people showed up to support the resolution.
"The decision to be a sanctuary school puts MPS on the right side of history," said Kathy Jester.
"I want my immigrant friends and other people to be safe and sound," said high school student Farokra Shid.
"I was taught to always stand up for others," said fifth grade student Ruby Holtgreive.
One person stood up to speak against MPS becoming a safe haven district.
"I'm not a racist, I'm not a racist if I don't support this...where is it going to end, are they going to allow felons on the school playground?" said Wendy Sobczyk.
Tonight's school board meeting received national attention. A crew from Showtime was filming a documentary called "The Circus: Inside the Biggest Story on Earth."
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