All students, regardless of their immigration status, have the right to attend school. This right is protected by law, and no student can be denied access to education because of their immigration status. Under the 1982 U.S. Supreme Court case Plyler v. Doe, it is unconstitutional to deny the benefits of public education to undocumented students.
Sampson County Schools is committed to following all federal and state laws when it comes to protecting students’ legal rights, especially when it comes to interactions with immigration officials. While we must follow the law, including cooperating with authorized immigration officials, it’s important to know that schools are not allowed to interfere with official immigration actions in a way that would violate federal law. We will always ensure that any actions taken are lawful and appropriate.
When a student is on school grounds, the staff is there to ensure their safety and well-being, much like a parent would. If immigration agents come to the campus, the school staff will make sure that the agents follow the correct procedures, directing them to the main office. The school administration will handle the situation according to legal procedures and guidelines they have been given.
Our primary focus remains on the well-being, safety, and education of every student we serve, regardless of their background. We recognize that recent orders may cause uncertainty for some members of our community. We want to reaffirm our commitment to fostering a safe and welcoming environment where all children can learn and thrive.
The below links include resources and services that may be helpful for families affected by evolving federal practices. Please be advised that these resources are external and independent of Sampson County Schools, and we do not manage, review, or control any of the information found at these links and are not responsible for their content. We encourage families to explore these resources on their own to assess their relevance and usefulness for their specific needs.
(The Center on Immigration & Child Welfare Initiative)
(Immigration Advocates Network)