Chicago Teacher James Heidorn Resigns After ‘GO ICE’ Facebook Post Sparks Outrage, Describes Experience as ‘Devastating’

James Heidorn, a veteran physical education teacher at Gary Elementary School in West Chicago, has resigned after a two-word Facebook post supporting ICE ignited intense backlash from parents, local lawmakers, and activists. The teacher described the experience as “devastating and surreal,” saying it upended 14 years of work building relationships with students and serving as a positive role model.

Heidorn’s post, which read “GO ICE” in response to a news story about local police cooperating with immigration enforcement, sparked outrage in the heavily Hispanic district. The controversy led to Heidorn being placed on leave, called in to meet with HR on January 22, and facing intense public criticism before the investigation was concluded.

Illinois State Senator Karina Villa publicly condemned the post, while West Chicago Mayor Daniel Bovey posted a video calling it “hurtful” and “offensive,” citing concerns for children who felt unsafe. A “listening session” with parents and local community members further amplified pressure on the teacher.

Heidorn told Fox News Digital that his post was made on his personal Facebook page, was not directed at any student or family, and did not involve school matters. “I lost my career, my income and the chance to close out my time with my students properly—no farewell, no goodbyes,” he said. He emphasized the emotional toll of losing daily contact with students he had nurtured over the years.

Following the uproar, Heidorn also lost a soccer coaching position at a nearby private school. He expressed uncertainty about his future in education, which has defined his professional life.

Despite the controversy, some community members have rallied behind Heidorn, launching a GoFundMe calling him a “beloved physical education teacher” who “showed up every day for his students.”

Heidorn’s resignation came after he faced mounting pressure, intense scrutiny, and political fallout over a brief expression of personal support for law enforcement on social media.