Desoto independent school district

The DeSoto Independent School District is aware of the announcement and changes to federal policy regarding the places where Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officials may carry out activities. We recognize that these changes could impact our school community, as well as other districts nationwide.

DeSoto ISD understands that these recent changes may raise questions and concerns among families. While this matter is fluid, the district is actively reviewing the changes to understand their impact and how to respond. We aim to provide clear protocols for staff in the event of enforcement activity and information to support parents, guardians and caregivers.

Rest assured that DeSoto ISD will continue to provide a caring and supportive learning environment for all students and staff.  We are committed to maintaining the safety, wellbeing and success of every member of our school community. The district will support campuses, counselors and Student Support staff to provide resources for families impacted by this development.

Like many school systems, DeSoto ISD is seeking guidance from several entities including legal experts, the Texas Education Agency and other groups.

It is important to note the following:

Campus Protocols:

• DeSoto ISD maintains policy addressing interactions with law enforcement officers and government agents. Campus administrators have been reminded of these protocols.
• DeSoto ISD does not seek or request records regarding the immigration status of students or their parents. As a result, the district is unable to provide this type of information to external officials regardless of agency. Additionally, the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) protects the confidentiality of every scholar’s educational records. DeSoto ISD will only permit access to student records for those legally entitled to access the information.
• Authorities must obtain and provide proper legal authorization, such as a warrant signed by a judge or magistrate with a specific individual’s name, to access students or student information at a public location like a school.
• Should an authority arrive at a campus for this purpose, office and security personnel along with campus administrators, must follow protocols regarding reviewing and verifying the warrant. They should then inform the Chief of Security, Maintenance and Operations, as well as the Superintendent of Schools. Additionally, they should contact the parent or guardian of the person(s) named on the warrant before granting access.
• Once the appropriate entities have been notified, campus staff should discreetly escort all parties involved to a private space within the main office. This matter should be addressed with the support of a central office administration and security personnel.

Parent and Family Considerations:

• Despite the executive order(s), the United States Constitution guarantees certain rights regardless of immigration status.
• Under current law, it is not illegal for immigrants to attend school. All children are entitled to a public education, regardless of their immigration status or the status of their parents, as established by the U.S. Supreme Court case Plyler v. Doe.

Please note this is a developing situation that DeSoto ISD will continue to monitor.

DeSoto ISD respects and cares for the diverse realities faced by families in its schools. The district is thankful for the opportunity to support a safe and holistic school experience for students, staff and their families.

For questions or resources, please contact the district at [email protected] or call 972.223.6666.