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Dear School District of Philadelphia Families,
In recent months, schools and districts across the country have experienced an increase in reported threats connected to the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency. The School District of Philadelphia takes all such reports seriously.
Last year, we reaffirmed our commitment to ensuring that every student and family feels safe, welcomed, and supported in our schools, regardless of immigration status. That commitment remains steadfast.
To protect the safety and well-being of our students, the District has established clear protocols for school administrators and staff when:
- Law or immigration enforcement agents are present near school grounds
- Law or immigration enforcement agents are near bus stops or school buses
- Law or immigration enforcement agents request access to school records, individuals inside a school building, or entry into a school facility.
The District has also required updated professional learning for all employees and has provided resources for families and communities. These protocols and resources are designed to ensure our school leaders, educators, and communities are informed and prepared.
What students and families should know:
- District employees, volunteers, and contractors are prohibited from asking about a student’s or family’s immigration status.
- Any request from law enforcement or immigration enforcement to obtain information, search a school site, or access documents must be immediately referred to the Office of General Counsel for review and guidance, with a focus on protecting student privacy.
- The District discourages the presence of law enforcement or immigration enforcement agents on or near school campuses.
Families and community members can visit the District’s Family Resource Website to access guidelines and protocols for employees, and explore additional supports available to families.
At this time, we can confirm that there have been no verified reports of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement activity on any School District of Philadelphia property. We understand that national events and public conversations can create concern or anxiety within our community. If you are worried about your child’s commute to school, please remember:
- Encourage students who walk to school or a bus stop to travel with a friend or family member.
- Remind students to report anything suspicious to a trusted staff member.
- Encourage students to seek help from a trusted adult if they feel unsafe at any time.
For general questions, families and community members are encouraged to contact the District through Let’s Talk. We will continue working to provide meaningful information, strong training, and clear guidance so that every school remains a safe and welcoming place where students can learn and thrive.
Thank you for your continued partnership and trust. Together, we remain focused on our shared goal of becoming the fastest-improving large urban school district in the nation.
In Partnership,
Tony B. Watlington Sr., Ed.D.
Superintendent
The School District of Philadelphia