AURORA, Colo. — Aurora Public Schools has canceled classes at district schools and Pickens Tehcnical College Friday due to a growing number of “staff absences” anticipated on a day when nationwide protests against immigration enforcement are planned.
APS says Friday will now be treated as a professional release day – a pre-planned day of no classes – that had been scheduled for February 6. That day will now operate as a regular school day.
Before- and after-school care will also be canceled.
“Due to a higher than anticipated number of staff absences that continue to grow across the district, we will not be able to safely operate schools tomorrow, Jan. 30,” a Thursday night release from the district read.
Denver7 heard from students at some Front Range schools who planned to walk out of class Friday as part of a nationwide economic strike that calls for people to skip work, school and shopping. The protests are planned in opposition to federal immigration activity in American cities, particularly in the Minneapolis area.
“Hopefully it helps people know that they’re not alone and that there are voices fighting for them,” said Brighton High School student and protest organizer Gianna Rizzo.
Students at Montbello High School got a head start on the planned protests, walking out of class Thursday.
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As of Thursday afternoon, Denver Public Schools told Denver7 the district didn’t expect any operational closures on Friday. They were working on finding coverage for staff members that had called out.
“Denver Public Schools is dedicated to providing a safe learning environment for our students,” said DPS spokesperson Scott Pribble. “If a closure is needed, we will provide as much notice to our families as soon as possible so that they can make plans for their students.”
Denver7 has also reached out to other area districts to hear about their plans for Friday. This story will be updated if and when we learn more.
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