Hopewell City Public Schools issues statement on immigration raids

HOPEWELL, Va. (WRIC) -- Hopewell City Public Schools released a statement on Thursday following the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids taking place under President Donald Trump's executive orders. On Thursday, Jan. 30, the school district released a statement in response to recent executive orders and increased law enforcement activity related to immigration and deportation in the United States. "We understand that the recent executive orders and increased law enforcement activity related to immigration and deportation have led to many questions and heightened anxiety," Hopewell Schools said in its statement. "These are uncharted waters for all of us, and while schools have always been a safe haven, we share many of the same questions you do." Hopewell Schools said it is actively gathering new information each day, including insights from a webinar held on Thursday with attorneys and the Virginia Association of School Superintendents. "Our school board team is working diligently on preparedness and protocols, and we deeply appreciate both your concern and your patience as we navigate this fluid situation," the school district said. The school district ended its statement by saying it remains committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of its students, staff and families. RELATED: ‘We love you here’: Richmond school leaders pledge support to immigrant students, families amid ICE raids The message from Hopewell Public Schools comes after Richmond Public Schools and Chesterfield County Public Schools issued their own statements regarding immigration raids taking place in the country.