Dear Parents, Staff and Community Members,
At Silver Consolidated Schools, I want every student and family to feel safe, supported, and truly welcome in our schools. Recent changes in federal policies regarding immigration enforcement near schools have understandably raised concerns, and I want to reassure you that our priority is the well-being of every student in our care.
As a public school district, we are legally required to provide education to all students, regardless of immigration status, as protected by the U.S. Constitution and the landmark Supreme Court case Plyler v. Doe. New Mexico's Constitution also guarantees the right to a free education for all children, and our schools are committed to ensuring every student has access to a safe and uninterrupted learning experience.
Additionally, schools have historically been considered "sensitive locations," meaning that immigration enforcement activities should not take place on school grounds or at school bus stops under normal circumstances. However, federal guidance has changed this past month, and I want to assure parents that we have protocols in place to address these situations responsibly.
To protect students and uphold the law, our district will follow strict protocols when approached by any law enforcement agency, including Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE):
Student Privacy: We do not share any student information, including enrollment records, with immigration authorities unless legally required by a judicial warrant or subpoena. This is in accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).
Restricted School Access: ICE agents cannot enter school property without a valid judicial warrant. If they attempt to enter, principal and front office staff will:
Request identification and the reason for their visit.
Notify the building principal immediately.
Inform the superintendent before allowing any interaction.
Legal Review: If a warrant or subpoena is presented, district officials will consult legal counsel before complying with any request for information or access to students or staff.
Parent Notification: If law enforcement/ICE requests to interview or detain a student, parents or guardians will be notified before any interaction occurs, except in rare cases required by law.
School Safety Procedures: If an enforcement action is attempted near or on school property, the school may enter a Hold/Shelter-in-Place protocol to ensure student and staff safety while the situation is assessed.
I understand that discussions around immigration enforcement can create uncertainty and anxiety for some families. Please know that our top priority is to provide a safe, stable, and inclusive learning environment for all students and staff. Our staff is trained to handle these situations with professionalism, compassion, and adherence to legal protections. Counselors are available at all schools to assist students who may feel anxious or fearful. And I encourage parents and caregivers to ensure that their contact information is up to date so they can receive important updates from Silver Schools, or be contacted individually in the event of an emergency.
The safety and well-being of our students and staff is my top priority, and I want to assure you that Silver Schools will continue to provide a welcoming environment for all families. If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to reach out to my office. Working with our local law enforcement and school staff, we will continue to support and protect all members of our school community.
William D. Hawkins
Silver Consolidated Schools Superintendent
575-956-2000
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