Families, Staff, and Community Members: 

Recent changes to federal policies, including the repeal of the “sensitive locations” rule, may cause concern for some in our community. We want to reassure everyone that we are here to support you and will continue to provide a safe and inclusive environment.

Here is how we are addressing these situations, including detailed guidance from our attorney:

  1. No Discrimination: Our district policies protect all students, staff, and families from unfair treatment or exclusion. Everyone in our schools should feel respected and safe, no matter their background or identity.
  2. Protecting Student Privacy: Student information is protected under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). If an outside agency, like Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), requests student records, they must present a valid subpoena or court order. Parents or guardians will be notified before any information is shared unless the legal document specifically prohibits us from doing so.
  3. Handling ICE or Law Enforcement Requests:
    • If ICE or any law enforcement officer comes to a school, staff should immediately notify the building administrator.
    • The administrator will verify the officer’s credentials and record their name, badge number, agency, and contact information. 
    • Administrators will contact the district office for further guidance, and legal counsel will be consulted to ensure compliance with the law.
    • Officers must present a valid judicial warrant signed by a judge for the arrest or detention of a specific individual or a valid subpoena for records.
    • If the officer does not have proper documentation, the district will not comply with the request.
    • Staff should not attempt to block or interfere with law enforcement actions, as this could create legal risks for the district and individuals involved.
  4. Emergency Contacts: Families should keep their contact information and emergency contacts updated in Infinite Campus. This ensures we can quickly and safely respond in any situation. If a parent or guardian cannot pick up their child, the student will only be released to a designated emergency contact or authorized law enforcement officer if applicable.
  5. Resources for Families: While our staff cannot provide legal advice, we can help families connect with trusted organizations, such as:

Students, staff members, and family deserve to feel supported at Norwalk CSD. We will continue to work hard to create a community where everyone feels they belong.  If you have questions or concerns, please reach out to your child’s building administrator or the district office.

Respectfully,

Shawn Holloway, Norwalk CSD Superintendent