North Bay educators and families are grappling with concerns about Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) presence in schools following changes to federal guidelines.
Superintendents and principals in Healdsburg, Calistoga, Petaluma, and Santa Rosa report fear and anxiety among students and families. Districts are training staff on how to respond to ICE presence, emphasizing that officers must sign in and have a valid reason to be on campus. Schools are asserting their right to verify any “exigent circumstances” ICE might claim before granting access.
Educators stress the importance of maintaining student safety and ensuring families feel comfortable sending their children to school, acknowledging the potential impact of these policies on attendance.
