RPS votes unanimously in support of policy protecting immigrant students
VENN
RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- Richmond Public Schools (RPS) leaders voted unanimously to pass a policy that would safeguard students in the event that U.S. Immigrations and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents ever attempt to enter city schools in search of a child.
The vote comes after an increase in immigration enforcement efforts nationwide under President Donald Trump -- including changes to rules that once kept ICE from detaining people in safe havens, like elementary schools.
The newly passed policy, which ensures that RPS remains a safe space for all students regardless of immigration status, was approved with a unanimous vote of the Board members.
"ICE, state or local law enforcement agencies acting on behalf of ICE -- or agents or officers for any federal, state, or local agency [who are] attempting to enforce federal immigration laws -- are to follow [this new policy,]" said RPS District 9 chairwoman Shavonda Fernandez.
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Under the policy guidelines, immigration enforcement will not disrupt the educational environment -- meaning they won't be allowed in schools without a judicial warrant or if "any other legal considerations apply."
“Richmond Public Schools, to the furthest extent of the law, will not allow any individual or organization to enter a school site if that visit would disrupt the educational setting," Fernandez said.
The warrant would then be taken to Superintendent Jason Kamras' office for review before any decision is made.
Additionally, student data related to immigration status will be protected, ensuring ICE or other agencies can only inquire about a student’s status after receiving confirmation from Kamras that it complies with national and statewide regulations.
"Richmond Public Schools shall review its record-keeping policies and practices to ensure that no data is being collected with respect to students’ immigration status," Fernandez said.
Within the next 30 days, RPS will create a Rapid Response Team to ensure that, in the event that student is deprived of care or supervision due to federal law enforcement action, proper resources and support will be provided.
Teachers and counselors are able to discuss the policy with students, providing reassurance and support as needed.
The resolution will be posted at all Richmond Public School sites. The district has committed to updating the community on compliance efforts at the next school board meeting.
