Santa Maria high schools are now safe spaces for undocumented students, following the passage of a “safe haven” proclamation at the Santa Maria Joint Union High School District’s board of education meeting on Jan. 10.
The proclamation stated that “every district site be a safe and welcoming place for all students and their families,” according to the resolution presented at the board meeting.
“All requests for documents or entrance to district school sites by any immigration officer shall be immediately forwarded to the superintendent for review to ensure the safety of all students, as well as compliance with applicable state and federal laws,” the resolution said.
The district is now committed to protecting student information regarding immigration status from federal agencies or other immigration enforcement authorities, unless the student’s parents give their permission or the school is issued a judicial warrant, subpoena, or court order.
The resolution cited the district’s mission statement as reason for becoming a safe haven for undocumented students: “We prepare all learners to become productive citizens and college/career ready by providing challenging learning experiences and establishing high expectations for achievement.”
District board member Dominick Palera said in an emailed statement to the Sun that even though immigration issues undergo debate at both the federal and state levels, the district must take action to take care of its students.
“Anyone attending our schools regardless of ethnic origin, immigration status, race, or sexual orientation must feel safe at our schools,” Palera said. “This will help them achieve success which benefits us all.”
Board member Diana Perez agreed, saying in the emailed statement the resolution will make sure undocumented students can focus on educational opportunities and prepare for college or their careers.
According to the resolution, high school district students “have expressed fear, anxiety, and confusion” about whether Immigration and Customs Enforcement could enter the district property to determine the legal status of students and their families. It also clarified that students have the legal right to attend public school and access educational services regardless of their or their family members’ immigration status.
“The board of education embraces the diversity of our students and families and the rich language and cultural assets they bring to our district, and strongly supports and encourages the participation of all parents and families in our schools,” the resolution stated.
Following the passage of the safe haven proclamation, the board of education aims to collaborate with parents and community organizations to provide resources for students’ families who face immigration issues, according to the resolution.
This article appears in Jan 19-26, 2017.