Community Advocates Push for Immigration Policy Changes in DeKalb County Schools
During a recent meeting of the DeKalb County Board of Education, community members gathered to discuss proposed policies aimed at immigration enforcement within the school district. Students, parents, and local activists expressed their hope for the policy’s adoption before the school year begins in August.
Proposed Policy Aims to Protect Students
The policy seeks to limit the involvement of law enforcement and other government agencies on school campuses. Specifically, it would prohibit agencies from interrogating or removing students without proper legal authority, as well as accessing non-public areas of school property. Access would only be granted with a judicial warrant, court order, or another legally binding document reviewed by the district’s Office of Legal Affairs, unless there is an immediate threat to student or staff safety.
Reinforcing Legal Compliance
Crucially, the proposed policy states that its provisions should not conflict with any state or federal laws requiring compliance with lawful law enforcement activities. This ensures that appropriate measures remain in place while protecting the rights of students within the educational environment.
Local Immigration Attorney Advocates for Timely Implementation
Jessica Stern, a local immigration attorney, is advocating for the swift enactment of the policy. She emphasizes the importance of creating a safe space for students, stating that they should be able to start the school year free from fear. Families, too, should feel secure in sending their children to school without the concern of law enforcement presence, Stern argued.
Student Voices Call for Safety
Nancy Aguilar Fuentes, a student from Sequoia Middle School, made her voice heard at the meeting, expressing her desire for a policy that prevents ICE from taking children from schools. Despite it being the middle of summer vacation, she felt compelled to advocate for her fellow students. “I need to know what’s going on in the world,” she remarked, highlighting the pressing concerns families face regarding immigration enforcement.
District’s Commitment to Student Safety
In a statement to CBS Atlanta, the DeKalb County School District outlined that their Policy Committee had reviewed the draft policy in May. The district remains committed to fostering a secure and supportive learning environment for all students. The proposed immigration enforcement policy is set for its first reading at the Board of Education’s meeting in August, affirming the district’s dedication to protecting student rights.
Previous Commitments Reinforced
Earlier this year, the DeKalb County School District reaffirmed its commitment to providing equitable educational opportunities, regardless of immigration status or national origin. The district clarified that it does not require or collect information about a student’s immigration status and has established robust protections for student records, alongside clear procedures for responding to law enforcement inquiries. The next school board meeting is scheduled for August 10th, where further discussions and decisions will take place.
