WITS is the largest provider of literacy enrichment programming and corporate partnerships in Chicago Public Schools, delivering free programs that support both students and teachers. This fall, WITS has welcomed over 450 students and volunteers back to our literacy-based mentorship programs. Our volunteers have started program with a commitment to serve as dedicated, compassionate WITS mentors this school year. The relationships WITS mentors build over the course of the next 7 months will be a source of stability, joy, and growth for our Chicago Public Schools (CPS) WITS students. Cultivating authentic connections means more now than ever.
What is happening in our community.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activity has increased in several Chicago neighborhoods throughout the past several weeks. This presence has created fear and uncertainty for many of our students and their families, particularly those in immigrant communities. WITS recognizes this is a deeply troubling time, and it is natural to feel anxious or unsure about how to best support students and our community.
WITS’ commitment to students and CPS.
Our role is one of care and consistency. The most valuable thing the WITS community offers is a steady presence. Our mentors and staff will continue to show up, listen, provide encouragement, and explore a love of reading with CPS students.
We protect students’ privacy. WITS mentors and staff do not initiate conversations about immigration status or specific family situations. If a student shares something personal, our staff and mentors will attentively and empathetically listen without judgement.
Resources
WITS has a robust archive of thoughtful, topical blogs. Consider taking a look at “Welcoming Migrant Students into WITS Programs” (Jan 2024), “Supporting Newcomers in Chicago Elementary Schools” (WITS Talk, Feb 2024), and “How to Be Trauma-Informed” (WITS Talk, Dec 2017). CPS has also created many resources to help keep families informed.
WITS stands with our students and their families, and is committed to ensuring our programs remain spaces of trust, safety, and belonging. Our work right now can feel heavy, and it’s completely understandable to feel unsettled. We at WITS know the importance of community and what we lean into right now is — we’re in this together.
