‘Fear, Confusion, Distress,’ Morris School Officials Address ICE Raid Concerns

MORRISTOWN, NJ — Morris School District officials have voiced their concerns regarding recent Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activity in Morristown, with a raid this weekend resulting in the detainment of a Morristown High School student.

During its meeting Monday night, the Morris School District Board of Education discussed the recent ICE activity that has “deeply impacted members of our school community.”

“We know that some of our students and families are experiencing fear, confusion, and distress,” said Superintendent Anne Mucci. “Tonight, our emotions are understandably high, and I want to begin by grounding us in our shared responsibility: the care, safety, and well-being of our students.”

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Mucci reminded the audience that Morris School District officials do not engage with immigration enforcement or reveal information related to a student’s immigration status.

Additionally, while school officials were hesitant to publicly comment on security measures for safety reasons, Mucci encouraged concerned students, families, and staff to engage with the district’s many social and emotional support services it offers.

“We work continuously with our community partners to ensure our schools operate safely and responsibly, within the law, to protect all of our students,” Mucci said. “The Morris School District is one that’s filled with compassion, empathy, and strong community partnerships.”

During the public comment section of the meeting, Morris Township resident Nicole DiMella presented a letter to the Board of Education.

The letter, signed by more than 300 parents in the community, encouraged district officials to consider “enhanced security measures” in light of the ICE operations.

“We strongly encourage MSD (Morris School District) to consider emergency security and support measures, including but not limited to enhanced transportation/bussing options, additional security personnel or monitoring, preparedness training for staff and students, and expanded social and emotional support services,” the letter reads. “We believe that our school community extends beyond the schools' buildings. We encourage MSD to communicate clearly and promptly about how the broader community can prepare for potential future operations, as well as what local resources, services, and supports are available.”

The Board thanked DiMella for her comments and the letter.

Morris School District is made up of 10 schools that serve more than 5,000 students.

The next Morris School District Board of Education meeting will be held on Feb. 23 at 7:30 p.m. in the Learning Commons of Morristown High School.