Immigration Resources for Families

The following statement was made by APS Superintendent Dr. Francisco Durán at the Jan. 30 Arlington School Board meeting:

Like many in our community, I am increasingly concerned about new immigration enforcement efforts taking place across the country. I want our students, staff, and families to know that we take the safety and well-being of each member of our community seriously. We are committed to maintaining safe, supportive, and welcoming school environments for all.

APS does not ask about immigration status. Under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), schools are prohibited, without parental consent, from providing student information to federal immigration agents without appropriate legal justification.

We have taken proactive steps to prepare and guide our school leaders and staff to support all families:

• We have partnered with Arlington County and advisory groups to provide a webpage of resources for families, ensuring they have access to the support and information they need, including a link to understanding your rights from the Immigrant Legal Resource Center.
• Our school leaders and staff have received thorough training on how to respond if law enforcement or immigration officials request student information or access to students.
• Our schools will also continue to keep families well informed when concerning incidents occur at or near our schools that affect student safety or normal operations. Families will be notified by the school if law enforcement requests information or access to students.
• APS is committed to protecting our students and families. Immigration officials will not be allowed to enter schools or remove students without following proper legal protocols. Principals will contact our central office and our legal team immediately to review any warrant or legal documents that are presented.

I encourage all families to ensure their emergency contact information is up to date. This allows us to communicate effectively with trusted contacts in the event of an emergency or unforeseen circumstances. Families can update their information through ParentVUE or by contacting their student’s school directly.

APS remains steadfast in our commitment to supporting every student and family, and fostering a safe, caring, and inclusive learning environment for all.

Please continue to access our information page for up-to-date information and resources.  Many community organizations are also providing information, and we welcome the shared effort to help keep everyone informed and feeling safe in our schools.