RALEIGH, NC – Following recent federal statements on immigration enforcement, Wake County Public Schools and Durham Public Schools (DPS) have reaffirmed their policies on how school officials should respond if Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents appear on campus.
Wake County Schools Issue Guidance to Principals
In North Carolina’s largest school district, Wake County, administrators have issued clear guidelines for principals, stating that immigration officers cannot enter school property without proper authorization. If an ICE agent arrives, the principal must:
• Request official documentation proving the agent’s legal authority.
• Delay entry while contacting the local superintendent’s office for guidance.
• Ensure that no students are released to immigration officers without a warrant or court order.
This directive aligns with federal privacy laws, which protect student records from being disclosed without parental consent or legal justification.
Durham Public Schools Address Community Concerns
At a DPS school board meeting on Tuesday night, concerned parents and students questioned how the district plans to protect immigrant families from potential enforcement actions at school.
One parent, Heredia Carlon, spoke through a translator, sharing fears that some DPS families worry about deportation and separation.
“I want to make sure our children are safe at school and are not separated from their families,” Carlon told CBS 17.
DPS Reassures Families, Outlines Support Measures
Superintendent Anthony Lewis acknowledged community concerns, stating that DPS is closely monitoring potential policy changes and their impact on students.
Later that evening, DPS sent a message to families, clarifying that the district will only disclose student information to law enforcement when legally required.
A DPS spokesperson further explained the district’s protocol:
• If ICE agents arrive on campus, principals must immediately notify district officials before taking any action.
• If a student’s parent is detained during school hours, DPS student support services will step in to connect the child with community resources and legal assistance.
“When we learn of these situations, our student support teams are ready to help connect students with services and people who can provide assistance,” the spokesperson said.
What This Means for Local Schools
With immigration enforcement remaining a sensitive topic in North Carolina, both Wake and Durham school leaders emphasize that their priority is to protect students, ensure legal compliance, and support affected families.
For ongoing coverage of education policies, community concerns, and public safety in Durham, subscribe to the Bull City Citizen—your trusted source for in-depth local reporting.
Stay informed. Stay connected. Read more at www.BullCityCitizen.com.
