A Message of Support for Our APS Students and Families

Dear APS Families,

We know that recent immigration enforcement activity in our area is causing fear, uncertainty and stress for some members of our community. Some families have been directly affected, while others may be worried about what these developments could mean for their loved ones.

We want every APS family to hear this clearly: You are an important part of our community. Your students belong in our schools, and we are here to support them.

Our schools are more than places of learning. They are communities where students should feel safe, cared for and connected to adults they trust. During uncertain times, that sense of belonging is especially important.

APS remains committed to serving every student who lives in Arlington.

• APS does not ask for or require information about a student’s immigration or legal status.
• Student information is protected in accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and other applicable laws and policies.
• Discrimination, bullying and harassment will not be tolerated. Every student deserves to be treated with dignity and respect and to feel that they belong in their school. Please encourage your student to report any instances of discrimination, bullying or harassment by emailing [email protected] or through one of the other available reporting avenues.
• We want every student to continue coming to school every day. If circumstances are making it difficult for your student to attend school or participate fully, please contact your school so we can work with you and provide support.

If Your Family’s Circumstances Change

We recognize that a sudden change within a family can affect many parts of a student’s life.

If a parent or guardian is no longer able to care for a student and the student is temporarily staying with a relative, family friend or another caregiver, please contact the student’s school as soon as you are able. We want to help make the transition as smooth as possible and ensure students continue to have access to school, transportation, meals, learning and other needed supports.

We understand that a new or temporary caregiver may not know how to navigate APS. You do not have to figure it out alone. Our school staff can help answer questions and connect families and caregivers with available APS and community resources, including support for basic needs.

Please Make Sure Your Information Is Current

It is especially important that the information APS has for your family is accurate and up to date. Please take a moment to review your information in ParentVUE, including your emergency contacts and the individuals authorized to care for or pick up your student.

Having up-to-date information helps your school know whom to contact and who is authorized to support your student in an unexpected situation.

If your family needs assistance completing or notarizing documents related to a change in caregiving arrangements, please contact your school registrar, or the APS Student Registration Office for assistance and guidance at 703-228-8000 opt. 1.

Parents and legal guardians listed in a student’s Synergy account may also request an alternate identification process when visiting their student’s school. We want our parents and guardians to continue to feel welcome and connected to their school communities.

Support Is Available

Please know that there are people throughout APS ready to support your family. School counselors and social workers are available to support students who may be experiencing fear, anxiety, changes at home or other challenges. Bilingual Family Specialists are also available to help families communicate with their schools, understand school processes and connect with resources and support.

If your student is struggling or your family’s circumstances have changed, please reach out to your student’s principal, counselor, social worker, Bilingual Family Specialist or another trusted staff member at your school. You do not need to wait until a situation becomes an emergency to ask for help.

Additional information and support are available through our Immigration Resources for Families page.

We know that uncertainty can be difficult for students and families. We may not have every answer immediately, but we will listen, we will care, and we will work with you to identify the support available.

Our diversity is one of Arlington’s greatest strengths. Every student and family contributes to who we are as a community.

During a time when some of our families may be feeling especially uncertain, we want you to know that APS remains committed to providing schools where every student is welcomed, valued, cared for and knows they belong.

Sincerely,

Dr. Francisco Durán
Superintendent