As concerns over immigration enforcement grow, Coastal Bend school districts are working to ensure families and staff understand their rights and responsibilities. The move comes after the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) recently rescinded previous guidelines protecting “sensitive locations” such as schools from immigration enforcement actions.
DHS Policy Changes Raise Concerns
According to a January 21 DHS news release, immigration officers are no longer restricted from taking enforcement actions in schools, places of worship, and other critical areas. The previous guidelines, introduced in 2021, aimed to prevent enforcement activities in locations that might hinder access to essential services. Before this, a 2011 Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) memo sought to limit enforcement in places like schools and churches.
A DHS spokesperson justified the policy reversal, stating, “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 officers.”
Coastal Bend School Districts Respond
Although widespread school enforcement remains uncertain, local school leaders closely monitor the situation. Several districts have reassured parents that student privacy rights remain intact and that school protocols will be followed in case of incidents.
Alice ISD Issues Precautionary Letter
Alice Independent School District Superintendent Anysia Trevino initially raised concerns that U.S. Border Patrol agents might board school buses to detain students. However, in a follow-up letter, Trevino clarified that no such incidents had occurred but emphasized the importance of caution.
Border Patrol Chief Addresses Concerns
Responding to concerns, U.S. Border Patrol Chief Mike Banks stated in a “Fox & Friends” interview that agents would not target school buses or children.
West Oso ISD Reaffirms Commitment to Students
West Oso Independent School District Superintendent Kimberly Moore reassured families that the district educates all students regardless of citizenship status and does not collect immigration-related data. “Should ICE execute a warrant at one of our schools, we will promptly notify parents,” Moore stated.
Corpus Christi ISD Maintains Policy
Corpus Christi Independent School District (CCISD) affirmed that its operations remain unchanged. “We have reminded our school leaders that we continue to follow our established policies regarding law enforcement and other visitors to our schools. If any changes occur, we will inform staff and families accordingly.”
Other School Districts Stay Vigilant
Calallen ISD Superintendent Emily Lorenz emphasized the district’s communication with Border Patrol and legal advisors, ensuring that procedures remain unchanged. Similarly, Gregory-Portland ISD confirmed that no immigration-related incidents had occurred, highlighting that student information is protected under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).
Tuloso-Midway ISD administrators recently underwent training on immigration policies in public schools, preparing for potential scenarios.
Legal Protections for Students
Under U.S. law, all children, regardless of immigration status, have the right to public education. A 1982 Supreme Court ruling reinforced this principle, preventing schools from denying education based on legal status. Additionally, FERPA safeguards student records, ensuring schools cannot release personally identifiable information without parental consent or a court order.
Lawmakers Seek Clear Guidelines
Recognizing the potential impact of federal immigration enforcement, Texas lawmakers have urged the Texas Education Agency to provide districts with clear guidance. Schools remain committed to protecting students and keeping families informed as the situation develops.
Conclusion
With immigration enforcement policies shifting, Coastal Bend schools prioritize student safety and privacy. District leaders actively communicate with families, legal experts, and law enforcement to ensure compliance with federal and state laws, even though no immediate actions have occurred.