San Rafael City Schools board adopts resolution declaring district a sanctuary

The San Rafael City Schools Board of Trustees voted Jan. 27, 2025, to adopt Resolution 2425-40 declaring the district a sanctuary district and reaffirming a commitment to an inclusive learning environment for students and families regardless of immigration status.

The resolution, brought as an update to a 2017 measure, says the district will not solicit or collect information about citizenship or immigration status of students or their families and “will not assist with immigration enforcement at schools except as required by state and federal law.” Staff told trustees the district will send a districtwide communication in English and Spanish and work with community partners on resources and trainings.

Board President Martin said the resolution reaffirms existing practice and law in the state and emphasized the human impact of the measure. “As someone that came to this country at the age of 2, and then came back at the age of 7, and a proud immigrant, I think it's very important that we lead with we want all of our students and families to feel very safe in our schools,” Martin said during the meeting.

Members of the public who spoke in favor of the resolution described it as a source of reassurance for families. Marina Palma, a parent who commented via Zoom, thanked the board and said the update would “give a lot of comfort and peace of mind to our families in the community.” SRFT Secretary Lisa Crawford also addressed the board during public comment to thank trustees for the sanctuary action while urging more formal guidance and training for staff.

Trustees and staff discussed implementation steps already underway, including a “know your rights” two‑page reference for school staff, multilingual “red cards” with legal information for families, and coordination with Marin County Office of Education, Canal Alliance and Legal Aid of Marin. Superintendent Giles told trustees principals and family liaisons will receive talking points and that principal and family‑liaison training begins immediately.

The board took the vote after public comment and discussion; the motion carried. Trustees asked staff to ensure materials and trainings reach site staff, family liaisons and families in multiple languages and to clarify steps employees should take if an immigration enforcement officer appears on campus. Several trustees and union representatives pressed for scheduled site‑level training and for clear, districtwide written guidance to avoid confusion about what staff may and may not say or do.

The resolution follows similar recent actions by neighboring districts and city and county bodies, board members said, and staff said the updated wording aligns the district with those other local measures. Trustees directed staff to carry out the communication and training plan and to report back as the plan is implemented.