RPS Superintendent Kamras addresses community’s concerns regarding ICE

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- Richmond Public Schools (RPS) Superintendent Jason Kamras addressed the community's concerns regarding U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) following recent deadly shootings in Minneapolis.

In the morning on Monday, Jan. 26, Kamras reminded drivers to stay off the roads due to the impacts of the weekend's winter storm in the RPS Direct email newsletter to the RPS community.

In addition, Kamras addressed multiple deadly shootings in Minneapolis, one that killed Nicole Macklin Good and another that killed Alex Pretti, as well as the detention of 5-year-old Liam Ramos.

"My heart breaks for their families," Kamras said. "No citizen should fear peacefully protesting, and no child should fear coming to school."

Kamras' comments come alongside reports from multiple Virginia officials regarding local ICE sightings and arrests.

With these incidents in mind, Kamras reminded the community that RPS' policy regarding law enforcement remains in place.

"It is only welcome to the extent it enhances school safety and security," Kamras said about law enforcement.

Further, Kamras said that if law enforcement officers who arrived at an RPS school were not there to protect the community, and with his permission, they would not be welcome.

"If law enforcement is not there to protect, with my express permission, they aren’t welcome," Kamras said.

In addition, Kamras shared that RPS leaders will host a virtual town hall on Thursday, Jan. 29, regarding ICE presence in schools.

"I urge you to attend if you have any questions or want to learn more about our policies and how you can support our students," Kamras said. "In the meantime, stay safe and warm!"