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Board committee backs draft resolution declaring district schools 'places to learn' for immigrant students, legal counsel to confirm language
Summary
At a committee meeting members unanimously supported a drafted resolution stating Memphis‑Shelby County Schools will be a place where students can learn regardless of immigration status; general counsel confirmed the resolution references prior legal guidance and committee asked staff to ensure the text reflects current federal and state law.
The procurement/policy committee reviewed a proposed board resolution intended to reassure immigrant families that Memphis‑Shelby County Schools will remain a place where all children can access a free public K‑12 education regardless of their or their parents’ immigration status.
School Board Member Saba Otey (sponsor) read the resolution aloud. The draft resolution referenced the U.S. Supreme Court decision Plyler v. Doe and statements about Tennessee constitutional obligations to educate children. The text in the draft also said district legal counsel has issued guidance for principals about how to respond to requests or visits from immigration enforcement, and it committed the district to provide information sessions, referrals and support services to immigrant families.
General Counsel confirmed to the committee that the legal guidance referenced in the draft has been distributed and that the draft resolution is written to declare the board’s support within the boundaries of current federal and state law. Several board members asked staff to make explicit in the resolution that the district will continue to abide by applicable federal and state statutes and to ensure the wording matches the guidance legal has already issued.
Committee members expressed concern about the potential for changes in state or federal law and asked clarifying language be added so the resolution does not inadvertently promise authority the district lacks. The committee asked legal to confirm the resolution’s language before the board’s public vote; members said the resolution’s purpose is to reassure families and to provide district staff guidance on public communications.
Ending: Committee members asked administration and general counsel to finalize language that reiterates the district’s intent to protect access to education for all children while noting the district will comply with existing federal and state law. Several committee members asked to sign onto the resolution as sponsors or cosponsors before it reaches the full board.
