With the recent election of the new president Donald Trump, changes to federal immigration policies have raised concerns, especially in school districts which have students with diverse backgrounds. Stamford Public Schools (SPS) is also affected by the federal rules about immigration, which has led to increased concern within the community.
Jan. 20, 2025, the federal government changed its immigration rules, making it easier for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents to operate in school. Before, schools were considered a safe zone. Now, schools are no longer automatically safe zones for undocumented people, although ICE agents can only enter non-public areas of schools if they have a special warrant signed by a federal judge. This means that ICE can’t just show up and search school buildings without legal permission.
This new policy impacts all students, particularly those from immigrant backgrounds, as well as their families. Stamford is home to a diverse student body, with around 30 to 40 countries represented in this school. The policy has caused unease among students and families who could be fearing for their safety and privacy, possibly due to their immigration status. SPS has responded to the new federal immigration policy, reinforcing the concept of inclusivity and safety. SPS made it clear that all students, regardless of their immigration status, are welcome in the district’s schools. The district does not collect information about students’ immigration status, nor does it use the information in its decisions.
Caroline Simmons, the mayor of Stamford, and Dr. Tamu Lucero, the superintendent of SPS, sent a letter to the community stating that SPS will keep giving the best education to all children in a safe environment. They also reminded everyone that the Connecticut Multilingual Learner Bill of Rights makes sure all children can attend public school, no matter their immigration status. In addition, Connecticut’s Trust Act helps protect families by limiting the ability of local police to work with ICE.
Even though the federal government no longer considers schools safe zones from ICE, Stamford High School and SPS have set up a clear plan for handling ICE situations. If ICE agents try to enter a school, staff can’t let them into private areas. They will refer ICE to the building administrator, who will work with the district’s legal and security teams to make sure the request is legal. SPS also trained administrators on how to handle these situations and plans to inform students about their rights to keep them safe and informed. “Our priority is always the safety and education of our students,” said Principal Matthew Forker. “We’re working closely with district leaders to ensure we follow the proper protocols while keeping our students and their families informed”.
In response to the changes in immigration policy, SPS has taken several steps to address concerns and keep everyone informed. Stamford High School is looking into holding an assembly for students to explain the policy changes and clarify their rights, making sure they know what to do if they feel unsafe. The district is also working directly with families through the Office of Family and Community Engagement (OFCE) to offer support and resources. Plus, SPS has partnered with local organizations and legal experts to help. If ICE agents show up at school, administrators will follow a clear protocol to verify warrants and contact legal staff to ensure everything is handled properly.
Many families are worried about how ICE could disrupt schools or affect their safety. There are also concerns about how students may feel if they are unsure about their immigration status or the status of their peers. The presence of law enforcement in schools could also make some students anxious or create tension among the community.
Despite these concerns, SPS is working hard to reassure families. The district is focused on making sure every student feels safe and valued. As Forker mentioned, administrators are in regular contact with district officials and are prepared for any changes. “Our goal is to provide a stable environment where students can focus on their education, without fear or uncertainty,” Forker said. The district is taking measures to address concerns, educate students about their rights, and keep the students safe while in school.