“We understand that recent news surrounding immigration policy may have caused concern for many families in our community,” the district said in a letter to parents. “We are dedicated to creating a safe and supportive atmosphere where every student and family feels valued and protected.”
DPS officials said they are bound by federal law to limit who has access to student records, which cannot be released to anyone without parental consent.
However, under a subpoena, the same rules don’t apply.
“If the District is subpoenaed, we are legally required to provide records to law enforcement or attorneys,” the letter said. “However, families will always be notified prior to any records being shared and the District’s attorneys will be consulted.”
The district asked families to contact their child’s school to provide accurate contact information in case of an emergency.
DPS said any government official who goes to a school building asking to speak with a student would be referred to the Safety and Security Office, and the child’s family would be contacted.
DPS noted a Supreme Court case from 1982, Plyer v. Doe, found a school can’t deny educational rights to any student, regardless of immigration status. DPS said because of that ruling, the district doesn’t collect or have any information about any student’s immigration status.
Dayton Public is one of a handful of districts in Ohio that runs a school for recent immigrants. The former World of Wonder at Residence Park is now the International School at Residence Park and accepts students from a variety of countries, including refugees.
“As a reminder, we are committed to serving all students and all families,” the district said. “One of the greatest strengths of our District is its diversity. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact your principal.”
Dayton Public appears to be the only local district that provided this information to families, but reporting by the Columbus Dispatch indicated a similar letter was sent to Columbus City Schools parents. Centerville, Springfield and Kettering schools representatives all said they did not send out any letters to their communities regarding immigration.
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