San Diego Unified School District reaffirms position on immigration enforcement
At a press conference held at district headquarters in University Heights, Interim Superintendent Dr. Fabiola Bagula addressed growing community concerns following recent Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids in the South Park neighborhood.
'Every student, regardless of how they identify or where they come from, deserves to feel supported, safe and inspired to come to school,' Bagula said.
Board trustee Richard Barrera criticized recent immigration raids, which took place near a local school as students were leaving afterschool programs.
'We don't ignore that it is an intentional attempt on the part of politicians in this country to strike fear into the hearts of our families,' Barrera said.
District officials highlighted steps they've taken over the past year to safeguard undocumented students and their families. In December, the board passed a resolution prohibiting ICE agents from entering school campuses without a court order, judicial subpoena or parental consent.
San Diego County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Gloria Ciriza emphasized that student safety is a prerequisite for learning.
'We know that our young people have a better chance to learn and grow in school if they feel safe, protected and welcome,' she said.
In addition to policy changes, the district launched a website providing legal resources for undocumented and LGBTQIA+ students. Over the past school year, Bagula said more than 650 students and adults received services at the district's five Newcomer Welcome Centers.
'No confirmed reports of ICE on our campuses have been received in the last six months,' she added.
Officials also announced the distribution of 10,000 'red cards,' which outline constitutional rights when interacting with immigration authorities.
'School will always be a safe haven for all of our students and all of our families,' Barrera said.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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