RISD Parents,
RISD is committed to providing a safe and nurturing school environment that promotes student academic growth. Recent reported changes in federal immigration enforcement guidelines have led to speculation that enforcement activity may begin to include K-12 schools. This speculation may lead to some RISD families becoming anxious or fearful about sending students to school, and we are monitoring our attendance and enrollment weekly.
RISD continues to provide a safe learning environment for all students, and we strongly encourage parents to keep their children in school. It is critical for parents to remember that under current law, all students have the right to an education, and school is a place where students are surrounded by support structures and caring adults who work toward their academic growth and success. RISD has existing counseling services that are available to students, who may need such services at this time.
RISD has guidelines in place for principals and staff related to law enforcement visits to our schools, including verifying credentials and the written documentation related to the purpose of a visit. As is always the case, if a law enforcement visit relates to a student, the school will make its best effort to notify the parent/guardian. The RISD Student & Parent Handbook (p 76) provides further information on how RISD engages with law enforcement agencies. The handbook is available for review here.
We will continue to monitor and follow all state and federal laws and updated guidance from state or federal officials.
We believe that all of our students deserve the opportunity to grow and succeed academically, and we are dedicated to ensuring that our students reach our North Star Goal.
Respectfully,
Tabitha Branum, Superintendent
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