Evergreen Park Schools Supt. Dr. Diane Cody sent a note to parents last week after she says she was alerted by police about a suspected gang member’s funeral being held within walking distance of the district’s five schools. Christian Farr reports.
Potential gang retaliation is a big concern Tuesday for parents in Evergreen Park during a funeral for a suspected gang member near five schools.
The service is scheduled at 11 a.m. at Kenny Brothers Funeral Home, about five blocks from Northwest Elementary School, Southwest elementary schools, and Central Junior High, when the students usually have recess.
All teachers have been instructed to keep students inside during the scheduled outdoor playtime.
"We want to make sure our parents and students are safe," said Dr. Diane Cody, superintendent of Evergreen Park School District 124.
On Monday, parents were asked to pick up their children from school as the wake was scheduled to start at 3 p.m.
Police from Evergreen Park, Chicago and Cook County are expected to be out in force.
Authorities went door-to-door late last week warning residents about the funeral. The fear is shots could be fired in retaliation, and Cody said it's better to lose a recess than a child.
Parents agree.
"I don't want my kids out if there's a concern about gang retaliation. I don't want my kids out on the street."
