Our Regulation Limits Immigration Enforcement in Schools

Dear PLMS Families

I am writing with an important message about limiting immigration enforcement in our schools and on our properties, including bus stops, school events, parking lots and school sidewalks.  

As you may be aware, our area and country have seen an increase in actions by ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) agents. We are re-sharing the district regulation about limiting immigration enforcement for families and staff, as well as resources. 

We want to assure you that we are here to support every student and family. 

There has not been any ICE activity on our campuses. Our schools remain safe spaces where every student is valued and protected. We are deeply committed to maintaining a learning environment where all students can come to school regardless of immigration status.  

Please take a moment to review the information below, which is from yesterday's district bulletin, and which outlines our district’s policy and regulation regarding immigration enforcement on school grounds. These guidelines are in place to ensure the continued safety and well-being of all members of our community.  

Issaquah School District Regulation 4300, “Limiting Immigration Enforcement in Schools,” is one part of our commitment to creating a safe, welcoming environment where every child, regardless of immigration status, can thrive. We want families to have clear knowledge of their students’ rights, and the assurance that our schools and staff members prioritize the dignity and well-being of every student. 

Please know that the district adheres to all requirements of federal and state law. Regulation 4300 applies to all of our schools and facilities, which include but are not limited to adjacent sidewalks, parking areas, sports facilities, playgrounds and entrances and exits from buildings. Other facts: 

• Every child who lives in our district has the right to safely access a free public education. 
• We do not exclude students from receiving an education or unlawfully discriminate against anyone because of their race, color, national origin, age, disability, gender identity, immigration or citizenship status, sex, creed, use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability, sexual orientation, or on any other basis prohibited by federal, state or local law. 
• If anyone attempts to engage in immigration enforcement on or near ISD grounds, including requesting access to a student, employee or school property: 
  • We will immediately alert and direct the person to the school principal or authorized designee, who shall: verify and record the person’s credentials (at least, name, agency, and badge number), record the names of all persons they intend to contact, collect the nature of the person’s business at the school, request a copy of the court order or judicial warrant, log the date and time, and forward the request to the Superintendent and/or legal counsel for review. 
  • We will ask any person who wants to communicate with a student, enter school grounds or conduct an arrest to first produce a valid court order or judicial warrant, which must be verified by our district’s Superintendent or designee and legal counsel prior to any next steps.  
• Regulation 4300 contains additional details about what staff will do if contacted by immigration enforcement. Please review the full regulation on our website. 

We share additional resources for families, immigrants and refugees on our website. 

For our high school parents and guardians, please know that you have the right to tell your own students to stay on campus at lunchtime if you wish. Please note that when we have school events such as athletics or activities, or when BASC is open, our facilities are not open to the public. Regulation 4300 applies during all of our events, activities and programs. 

In partnership, 

Michelle Caponigro
Principal