Letter to the Community re: Federal Immigration Policy
January 28, 2025
Recent changes in federal immigration policy—including the removal of protected area status for schools—have understandably prompted concerns within our community. We are writing to reaffirm that Stamford Public Schools (SPS) welcomes all resident children into our schools without consideration of race, religion, creed, gender, physical disability, intellectual disability, socioeconomic status, or immigration status. Stamford Public Schools is committed to providing all children with an education that cultivates productive habits of mind, body and heart, and our goal is to do so in a warm and welcoming environment where every child is seen, heard, and valued.
Connecticut’s Multilingual Learner Bill of Rights states that all students—regardless of immigration status—have the right to attend public school. SPS does not collect information about immigration status, nor do we consider this information relevant to our mission. Furthermore, Connecticut’s Trust Act limits the authority of local police departments to cooperate with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
Non local law enforcement officials, including ICE agents, are expected to present a valid judicial warrant signed by a federal judge to gain access to non-public areas of school facilities. An administrative arrest or removal warrant issued by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is not a judicial warrant and does not authorize DHS officers or ICE agents to enter non-public spaces without the District’s consent. In the event that ICE attempts to gain entry to non-public areas of a school, they will be asked to wait for a member of the SPS Compliance Department to review the warrant and verify the legality of the request.
At this time, legal experts in Connecticut believe there is a low likelihood that ICE agents will attempt to enter schools with a valid judicial warrant. In the event this does occur, school officials will make every effort to ensure such activity does not disrupt school operations. Should an immigration enforcement action occur in a school facility, members of the school community will be notified, as appropriate, following consultation with legal counsel.
The City of Stamford is fortunate to have a strong network of community partners who stand ready to provide assistance and support to families navigating the immigration system. Should you or someone you know need assistance, please contact the Office of Family & Community Engagement at 203-977-5312 or OFCE@stamfordps.org, or reach out to your school’s parent facilitator to be connected with the appropriate community resources.
We are committed to ensuring that our schools remain safe spaces for all students, and we appreciate your continued support.
Respectfully,
Caroline Simmons
Mayor, City of Stamford
Michael Hyman
President, Stamford Board of Education
Dr. Tamu Lucero
Superintendent, Stamford Public Schools