South LA Teacher Fired for Keeping Students Safe During ICE Protests
Teacher Dismissed for Opening Gate During Anti-ICE Protests
LOS ANGELES – A high school teacher in South Los Angeles claims he was dismissed from his position for insubordination after opening a gate to allow students to join anti-ICE protests.
Ricardo Lopez, who taught U.S. History and AP U.S. History at Synergy Quantum Charter High School, observed students attempting to jump a fence to participate in walkouts occurring across Southern California. Concerned for their safety, he made the decision to open the gate, recalling previous incidents where students had sustained injuries while climbing the fence.
“I was just concerned about their safety,” he said, recounting the events of last Wednesday. Despite his intentions, Lopez was terminated within an hour and escorted off the premises. His personal belongings, including student artwork, were later delivered to his home in boxes.
School administrators maintain that they adhere to Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) safety policies, asserting that decisions about student movement during school hours rest solely with administration. Last week, district officials had discouraged students from engaging in walkouts, yet the reasons behind Lopez’s immediate firing remain unclear.
The reaction from students, parents, and community groups has been one of outrage. Many have rallied outside the school in protest, deeming Lopez’s dismissal excessive. Organizations such as Unión del Barrio and the Association of Raza Educators have joined the cause, and a petition advocating for Lopez’s reinstatement has garnered over 900 signatures.
“I just want to get back to my classroom and students, especially with the AP exams coming up soon,” Lopez said. However, the label of "insubordination" could complicate his future teaching career and licensure.
Students expressed discontent with Lopez’s firing, claiming he did not encourage them to leave the school but acted to protect them. Several parents echoed the sentiment that, while they prefer students remain on campus, the punishment for such actions was disproportionate.
In a statement, Synergy Academies confirmed Lopez’s departure and emphasized the school’s commitment to student safety and compliance with district protocols. They noted, “Our responsibility as a school is to ensure that student expression happens in a way that protects students’ safety and complies with established campus protocols.”
As the school navigates the fallout from this incident, the community continues to rally in support of Lopez and his reinstatement.
