Belleville, NJ – A message sent to high school juniors in Belleville has triggered backlash from parents after students were invited to complete community service hours at a federal immigration detention center in Newark. The message, distributed through Google Classroom, referenced volunteer opportunities at Delaney Hall, an ICE detention facility, prompting concern over the appropriateness of the placement.
The communication was reportedly sent to 11th-grade students and outlined specific days and times when volunteer hours could be completed. Parents quickly raised objections, questioning how a detention facility became an option for student service credit.
District responds, says opportunity was not approved
“The message was taken down, and we have reinforced expectations with staff to ensure that all future communications and opportunities adhere strictly to our procedures. To be clear, this opportunity was not sanctioned by the district,” said Dr. Erick Alfonso, Superintendent of Belleville Public Schools.
Key Points
- Belleville students were invited via Google Classroom to volunteer at an ICE detention facility
- Parents voiced concern over the nature of the service opportunity
- School officials say the message was removed and not district-approved
The listing described volunteer shifts on weekends, holidays, and select weekdays at the Newark facility. It is unclear how many students received or viewed the message before it was removed.
Parents question screening of service opportunities
Delaney Hall, located in Newark, operates as an immigration detention center under federal authority. The inclusion of such a site in a school-related communication drew criticism from families who said student service opportunities should be more carefully vetted.
District officials have not indicated whether any disciplinary action will follow but said internal procedures are being reviewed to prevent similar incidents.