Safe and Welcoming Schools

We have received questions related to recent activity of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in nearby locations and other school districts. Our position and practices have not changed, we are committed to maintaining safe and welcoming schools for all.  The following information is to inform you of the of the Oregon laws we follow and steps we will take should ICE agents come to one of our schools. 

The district's position is that the educational environment is a safe space for students to access their education and for staff to deliver the educational experience. The district will follow all laws regarding access to student and staff information. 

Under Oregon Law ORS 181A.820, law enforcement agencies are prohibited from using public resources (in this case public schools) for the purpose of detecting or apprehending individuals whose only violation is being present in the United States in violation of federal immigration laws, subject to exceptions under the law. 

Under Oregon laws ORS 336.184-187, student educational records are protected from use for immigration action. 

Here are the instructions for our staff: 

• If ICE agents show up at one of our schools, your building principals will send those agents to the district office and I will verify credentials, determine their purpose for being in the district and then I will contact our legal counsel for guidance. 
• If a law enforcement agent contacts a staff member asking for student or staff information, they are to send those requests to the district office and inform their principals immediately.
• If ICE agents show up inquiring about specific students or families, we will notify those families independently. 

Our schools are safe, welcoming places where every student belongs and is supported to reach high expectations. We remain deeply committed to creating learning environments where all students feel valued, respected, and cared for. We also recognize that concerns about safety can cause real fear or anxiety for some students and families, and we are dedicated to removing any barriers that might prevent students from attending school and engaging fully in their education.

As the district gathers and learns more information on this issue or others that may impact our students, we will discuss what measures each building may need, including how to communicate with our students and families to support them.