Bibb County Schools issues policy statement on possible immigration raids amid crackdowns

Bibb County School officials on Tuesday sent a letter to families addressing rising concerns regarding the potential of U.S. Immigration and Customers Enforcement (ICE) raids at local schools and other formerly protected spaces.

“We understand that this may be concerning for some of our students and families. We wanted to take a moment to share some important information regarding this matter and the rights and protections afforded students when on school grounds,” the district said in a statement.

Fears are escalating nationwide, and in Georgia, among immigrant families after President Trump’s administration threw out policies limiting where immigration officers can make arrests and carry out deportations at sensitive locations, including schools and churches.

Several targeted operations have been conducted in Atlanta and Savannah, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Now, anxieties have stretched to Middle Georgia, where ICE agents made their first arrest in Macon last week, WGXA reported.

The BCSD said that the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act restricts the sharing of personally identifiable information without parental consent, which includes data that could reveal a student’s immigration status.

“Additionally, schools are not allowed to share student records with immigration or law enforcement agencies without consent or a judicial order,” the district added, noting that ICE officials must have a judicial warrant to enter school property.

“If a warrant is presented, parental consent is required before ICE officials are able to interview any student,” the district’s memo states.

The Bibb County School District is currently updating teachers and staff on their responsibilities, as well as proper protocols to follow if ICE officials visit a school in the future.

The district said its No. 1 priority is ensuring the safety and well-being of its students.

“During this time of uncertainty, we want our families to know that we are here for you. If you need any support, please reach out to your child’s school office or a school employee.”

Stephanie Hartley, BCSD spokesperson, said that families can opt to translate the communication message to their preferred language through the Smore online platform.

Officials with ICE in Atlanta could not be immediately reached for comment.