Bridgeport Public Schools Details Plan to Protect Students During Potential ICE Raids

Guidelines Aim to Ensure Student Safety and Privacy

Bridgeport Public Schools announced its guidelines to protect students if Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents attempted to raid any schools. The announcement came a day after President Trump was sworn in as the 47th president and the acting director of the Department of Homeland Security issued a directive ending the nation’s policy that ICE agents would not conduct actions in or near “sensitive” areas, such as churches or schools.

“Criminals will no longer be able to hide in America’s schools and churches to avoid arrest. The Trump Administration will not tie the hands of our brave law enforcement, and instead trusts them to use common sense,” the directive states.

Strict Protocols in Place

In a news release, interim school superintendent Dr. Royce Avery said the school district’s immigration enforcement guidelines remain in effect. According to Avery, no ICE agents or government officials are permitted to enter school buildings, buses, or attend school events without prior written authorization from the superintendent.

“Every student in Bridgeport, regardless of their immigration status, has the right to feel secure and supported in our schools,” Avery said in the release. “I became an educator to advocate for all students, and I will ensure their rights and privacy are upheld. Our schools will remain a safe space where all students can learn, grow, and succeed without fear or discrimination.”

Avery did not indicate that any ICE raids were planned in Bridgeport.

Confidentiality and Security Measures

Avery said Bridgeport Public Schools does not collect or store information regarding the immigration status of its students to protect their privacy.

Step-by-Step Guide for School Staff

• Secure the Premises: Use the intercom to communicate with the official. If necessary, lock all exterior doors to prevent unauthorized entry and ensure the safety of students and staff.
• Meet the Officer at the Entrance: Always meet the ICE officer at the school entrance, where all visitors are screened for entry.
• Request Officer Information: Ask for the ICE officer’s name, badge/ID number, and the reason for the visit during school hours.
• Contact the Superintendent’s Office: Immediately notify the Superintendent’s office to ensure they are informed and can take the necessary action.
• Do Not Physically Interfere: If the ICE officer does not comply with district protocols, do not attempt to physically intervene. Instead, gather as much information as possible and notify district security supervisors and the Superintendent’s office.

Conclusion

Bridgeport Public Schools is committed to ensuring the safety and privacy of all students, regardless of their immigration status. The school district’s guidelines aim to provide a secure and supportive environment for students to learn and grow, free from fear or discrimination.

FAQs

Q: What is the school district’s policy on ICE raids?
A: The school district’s policy is to not permit ICE agents or government officials to enter school buildings, buses, or attend school events without prior written authorization from the superintendent.

Q: Does the school district collect or store information on student immigration status?
A: No, the school district does not collect or store information regarding the immigration status of its students to protect their privacy.

Q: What should school staff do if an ICE officer arrives at the school?
A: School staff should follow the step-by-step guide outlined above, including securing the premises, meeting the officer at the entrance, requesting officer information, contacting the Superintendent’s office, and not physically intervening.