Worcester Public Schools Won't 'Coordinate' With ICE: Superintendent

WORCESTER, MA - The Worcester School Superintendent Rachel Monárrez sent out a letter Tuesday night about protecting Worcester's students from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

"WPS is steadfast in its commitment to ensuring the safety, well-being and rights of all our children," Monárrez said.

The statement comes in the wake of the Trump administration stripping schools of immigration enforcement protections.

"Criminals will no longer be able to hide in America's schools and churches to avoid arrest," a Department of Homeland Security spokesperson said.

In her letter, Monárrez outlined a list of stances Worcester Public Schools would take to ensure the safety of its students. She said:

• "We do not ask for for families' immigration statuses.
• We will not coordinate with ICE.
• We do not share student records with ICE, except in rare instances when a court order or parent/guardian consent is provided.
• We will not allow ICE agents access to WPS facilities without a criminal judicial warrant signed by a federal judge.
• We will not admit ICE agents into schools based on an administrative warrant, an ICE detainer or any other document related to civil immigration enforcement."

Monárrez stressed that students are dismissed only to people authorized by parents and guardians in writing. She also said principals and school-based staff received updated guidance on keeping students' rights secure, responding to ICE interactions and supporting students whose parents or guardians may be detained during the school day.

"WPS is committed to providing a safe and supportive environment where every child can succeed," Monárrez said.