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Superintendent rolls out 'Respect Your Tech' and reiterates that students may enroll regardless of immigration status
Summary
Superintendent Dr. Taheliani updated the committee on student events and a new technology-care initiative to reduce device damage. She also reiterated district guidance that children may enroll regardless of immigration status and outlined steps to protect student records and support families.
Superintendent Dr. Taheliani gave a brief update Jan. 21 that included student activities, a new “Respect Your Tech” initiative for district devices and guidance for families concerned about federal immigration policy.
Why it matters: The initiatives affect student supports (digital device stewardship and counseling) and provide reassurance to immigrant families about enrollment rights and privacy protections in schools.
Dr. Taheliani highlighted recent school events — Brockton High School’s senior December plays and senior Oscar night, a kindergarten family night at the Children’s Museum of Easton funded by Title I, and winter sports — and invited questions from the committee.
On technology, the superintendent described a newly adopted acceptable-use policy that includes fee structures for damaged district devices. She said the district will begin the year with education and outreach under the Respect Your Tech program: “first, the process is really education… making sure students know what to do, what not to do,” and that grade-appropriate materials will explain consequences and practical examples.
The superintendent addressed concerns about changes to federal immigration policy. She told the committee, “children do have a right to enroll in school regardless of their citizenship or legal immigration status.” She said the district will continue to keep student records private and directed staff to refer federal authorities seeking access to the superintendent’s office so legal counsel can be consulted. School leaders will translate and share resources from the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education and the Attorney General’s Office, she added.
Committee members asked about counseling supports and attendance monitoring. Member Anna Oliver asked whether adjustment counselors were prepared to support students anxious about news reports; the superintendent said school adjustment counselors have been sharing concerns and the district is preparing materials and supports, but that “we have a road in front of us to build” and more preparation is needed. Vice Chair Rodriguez asked the district to monitor attendance and withdrawal requests to identify families needing support.
Ending: The superintendent said the district will share translated materials with families, monitor attendance and withdrawal trends, enforce anti-bullying policies and continue monthly reporting to the committee on related data.
Quote: “Children do have a right to enroll in school regardless of their citizenship or legal immigration status,” Dr. Taheliani said.
Student snapshot: Student representative Stephanie James reported on Brockton High School activities, including the senior December plays, a National Honor Society clothing drive, FAFSA support for seniors and winter concerts.
