The Johnston School District sent out an email to families on Thursday letting them know the district is committed to serving “all students and families” despite the new approach toward immigration by the federal government.
Ironically, the email starts by expressing “deep concern” for the “well-being and safety” of all students. With stories about the deaths of Laken Riley, Sarah Root, Mollie Tibbetts and many other Americans who died as result of illegal immigration, we’re not so convinced the district has concern for the well-being and safety of American students.
“We are here to support your children and provide them with a safe, welcoming and inclusive educational environment,” the email states. “We take seriously our responsibility to protect the privacy and confidentiality of student information.”
The district said it would follow any required legal guidance and authority regarding enforcement of federal immigration laws but that “safety and privacy” of students is its “top priority” and it will take “all lawful actions to uphold these principles.”
The district told families that thanks to the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), access to student records must be limited, and records must only be disclosed under specific circumstances. The district emphasized to parents to notify the school in writing if they do not want information shared about their child. However, a student’s citizenship or immigration status is not included in the information.
The district included links and a flyer in English and Spanish with resources for immigrants and refugees.
