Phoenix Union Board finalizes policies on SRO involvement with federal law enforcement

The PXU Governing Board held a retreat on January 24, 2025, to discuss critical resolutions regarding the role of School Resource Officers (SROs) and their interaction with federal law enforcement. The meeting began with a focus on three key resolutions aimed at protecting students' rights and ensuring their safety within the district.

The first resolution stated that SROs will not participate in or assist with federal raids, nor will they inquire about students' legal status or identity. This was clarified to include inquiries about the legal status of parents or guardians when interacting on school campuses. Board member Pastor Rivera emphasized the importance of this resolution in light of current federal policies that may pressure local law enforcement to act against students.

The second resolution committed Phoenix Union to collaborate with the City of Phoenix to safeguard students. This partnership aims to resist any federal actions that could jeopardize student safety. Board members discussed the necessity of this collaboration, especially given the current political climate.

The third resolution focused on working with partner districts to protect not only students but also their siblings who may attend feeder schools. This resolution was seen as a vital step in ensuring comprehensive support for families within the district.

Throughout the discussions, board members raised concerns about the limitations of controlling SRO actions, suggesting that the language of the resolutions be amended to reflect the district's authority over contracted law enforcement. The board agreed to reword the resolutions to clarify that SROs and other law enforcement personnel must adhere to district policies.

The meeting concluded with a consensus on the importance of these resolutions in fostering a safe and supportive environment for all students. The board plans to finalize the wording of the resolutions in upcoming sessions, ensuring that all members are aligned on the language and intent.