School Districts Pass Resolutions on Responding to ICE

School districts across the country are issuing resolutions and updating policies to protect students’ rights in light of uncertainty regarding federal immigration enforcement activities in their schools. Many of these statements affirm the districts’ mission to ensure all students have a safe and positive learning environment, and they outline guidance to school personnel on how to respond to requests from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents for data or access to their campus.

School leaders are actively affirming the welcoming environment they intend to maintain along with spelling out their non-discrimination policies, procedures for collecting student information, commitment to the communities they serve, and measures for communicating with students’ families. Some of the resolutions set up timelines for training of school staff, including teachers and campus police.

Below are links to some such statements. If your district of campus is considering issuing a resolution of its own, these samples can be a useful reference.

Resolution Designating the School Board of Broward County, Florida, as an Inclusive, Safe and Welcoming District Ensuring a Protected Space and Environment for All Students Regardless of Immigration Status, Religion or Country of Origin to Learn and Thrive

Denver Public Schools Safe and Welcoming School District Resolution, 2024 (also see webpage: Denver Public Schools is a Safe and Welcoming School District)

Indianapolis Public Schools Resolution Reaffirming the Commitment to Creating a Safe and Supportive Learning Environment for All Students Regardless of Immigration Status, February 23, 2017

L.A. Unified Campuses as Safe Zones and Resource Centers for Students and Families Threatened by Immigration Enforcement, February 9, 2017 (also see reference guide)

Oakland CA USD Resolution Reaffirming District Facilities, Programs Are a Sanctuary for All Children and Adults, December 14, 2016 (also “OUSD is a Sanctuary District” resolution in multiple languages, resources and statement of support)

Resolution to Reaffirm the Board’s Commitment to the Admission, Safety and Privacy of our Students, San Antonio ISD, February 13, 2017 (plus FAQs Concerning Immigration Status and Students in Public Schools)