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Fairfax County Public Schools is reassuring families and employees that it will protect access to education and student privacy as recent national immigration policy decisions raise concerns across the community.
Superintendent Michelle C. Reid said the school division has plans to respond to changing federal policies and will do everything permitted by law to maintain safe, welcoming and inclusive schools.
A 1982 U.S. Supreme Court ruling in Plyler v. Doe established that children have a right to public education regardless of immigration status. The case arose after Texas allowed school districts to deny enrollment to undocumented children. The court found that policy violated the Equal Protection Clause of the 14th Amendment.
Federal privacy law also limits how schools handle student information. Under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, Fairfax County Public Schools is not legally permitted to collect the immigration status of students or their families.
School administrators have resources available for families with concerns. Principals have also received instructions on how to respond if a federal law enforcement official arrives at a school.
Reid said the division will continue following the law while using its authority to protect students and staff and preserve access to education for every child.