**Visit the Family Guidance & Resources page for more information.
Dear DeKalb CUSD 428 Parents, Families, and Guardians,
As the United States transitions in federal leadership, recent changes in immigration policy and enforcement priorities reflect evolving approaches to immigration enforcement. We want to stress to our families and students that DeKalb CUSD 428 is committed to ensuring that our schools remain safe, inclusive, and welcoming places of learning for all students. We strive to ensure that every child can attend school regularly without fear or hesitation. Our district staff works diligently to maintain a safe environment where all students can focus on their education.
The Board of Education adopted a Welcoming Resolution on December 3, 2019, which is still in effect. This resolution, in summary, outlines federal and state law regarding a child's access to a free public education regardless of that child’s immigration status and further states that due to the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and/or the Illinois School Student Records Act (ISSRA), that we cannot disclose to Law Enforcement Officials such as Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agents (ICE) or to any other person or entity any information about students.
As a result of executive orders signed by President Trump on January 20, 2025, the Department of Homeland Security rescinded guidelines on January 21, 2025, that previously limited federal law enforcement immigration actions within protected areas, including schools, churches, and college campuses. ICE and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) are no longer prohibited from conducting enforcement operations, including, arrests, in or around schools. However, any law enforcement official (e.g., Immigration and Customs Enforcement or ICE) must present proper documentation before accessing school premises or interacting with students. Our school leadership teams are aware of this requirement and will work directly with the superintendent's office and legal counsel to ensure our schools are first and foremost, a safe place for learning.
The District does not inquire about immigration status or request a family to produce documentation regarding immigration status for purposes of enrollment. Strict compliance with FERPA and ISSRA does not allow for the disclosure of student records to law enforcement agencies, including ICE or CBP unless compelled by federal, state or local law or subsequent to receiving a signed consent to disclose from a parent/guardian.
The District’s leaders and all applicable staff are being provided resources and detailed guidance about student rights and protections while interacting with law enforcement agencies such as ICE and CBP.
The City of DeKalb has also issued a response to citizens' concerns and inquiries that explains their role in accordance with the Immigration and Nationality Act and Illinois TRUST Act (5 ILCS 5805/1), which do not support initiatives that would mandate local law enforcement agencies to play a role in the enforcement of federal immigration law. Please see the complete release for more information.
The District’s schools shall remain safe and welcoming places for students and their families. The District shall protect confidential student information to ensure that students’ learning environment is not disrupted by immigration enforcement action, to the greatest extent permitted by law.
Sincerely,
Minerva Garcia-Sanchez, Ed.D., Superintendent
Board of Education of DeKalb Community Unit School District 428