Dear Families,

As you may be aware, the new presidential administration has released a memo that rescinds a 2021 memo by the Department of Homeland Security that designated schools as areas protected from immigration enforcement actions.

We understand that this may be concerning for some of our students and families. We wanted to take a moment to share some important information regarding this matter and the rights and protections afforded students when on school grounds.

It is important to note that the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) protects the privacy of student education records and restricts the sharing of personally identifiable information without parental consent. This includes data that could reveal a student’s immigration status. The federal law also supersedes any state-level policy that seeks to mandate the release of student data.

Additionally, schools are not allowed to share student records with immigration or law enforcement agencies without consent or a judicial order.

We also want to share that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officials must have a judicial warrant to enter school property. If a warrant is presented, parental consent is required before ICE officials are able to interview any student.

The Bibb County School District is updating teachers and staff on their responsibilities and the proper protocols to follow if ICE officials visit one of our schools in the future. As always, the safety and wellbeing of our students is our number one priority.

During this time of uncertainty, we want our families to know that we are here for you. If you need any support, please reach out to your child's school office or a school employee.

Thank you for your attention to this important communication.