In a move aimed at safeguarding student rights and ensuring a supportive learning environment, Governor Ned Lamont and Education Commissioner Charlene Russell-Tucker announced the release of a critical guidance document for all Connecticut K-12 public schools. Issued by the Connecticut State Department of Education (CSDE), this guidance addresses concerns surrounding recent changes in U.S. Department of Homeland Security policies related to immigration enforcement activities and their potential impact on school operations, student privacy, and the overall well-being of students.
Ensuring the Right to Education for All Students
Connecticut law, in alignment with federal statutes, guarantees every child the right to attend public school, regardless of their immigration status. This newly issued guidance is designed to reaffirm that right, offering school districts a clear overview of legal obligations and best practices for protecting students. It also provides a framework for developing policies and procedures that ensure all students and their families feel welcome and secure in their school communities.
Governor Lamont emphasized the importance of creating a safe and inclusive environment within Connecticut schools:
“Our schools are primarily places for learning and growth. It is important for our students and families to feel welcome and protected by their schools so educators can focus on teaching and students can focus on learning. To achieve this, we are supporting our school leaders in developing procedures that prioritize the protection of students and their information to the fullest extent permitted by the law.”
Guidance Focus: Student Safety and Privacy
The guidance document outlines how schools can balance compliance with federal and state laws while fostering an environment of safety and trust. Specifically, it provides strategies for:
- Protecting student information: Ensuring student privacy is maintained and safeguarded from external immigration enforcement activities.
- Promoting inclusivity: Reinforcing that all students, regardless of background or immigration status, have the right to equal access to education.
- Developing clear policies: Offering a roadmap for school districts to create consistent policies aligned with state and federal laws to protect students from unnecessary disruptions or fear related to immigration enforcement.
Education Commissioner Russell-Tucker echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the connection between safety and academic success:
“Students are at their best when they are in school, fully engaged in learning, and feeling safe and supported by their school community. This guidance is designed to help school districts develop policies and procedures that are clear and aligned with state and federal law, while ensuring all students feel welcome in their classrooms.”
Supporting Schools in Implementation
The CSDE guidance serves as a critical resource for school leaders, providing tools to address concerns that may arise from immigration enforcement policies. It encourages collaboration among educators, administrators, and community members to ensure that schools remain focused on their primary mission: fostering academic success in a safe and welcoming environment.
This proactive measure by Connecticut’s leadership sends a powerful message that the state remains committed to protecting the rights and dignity of all students. By equipping schools with the necessary tools to navigate this complex issue, Connecticut continues to uphold its values of inclusivity and equal opportunity in education.
To download the CSDE Guidance Document, click here.
Parents and community members interested in learning more about how this guidance impacts their local schools can contact their district’s administration or visit the Connecticut State Department of Education’s website for additional resources.