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Residents and student advocates press MSDE to adopt clearer guidance on immigration enforcement near schools
Summary
Public commenters at the board meeting urged MSDE to issue clear, community‑informed guidance to protect students from immigration enforcement activity near schools; CASA requested collaboration and noted inconsistent district policies, while a Baltimore City student recounted fear of ICE near school zones.
Several public commenters asked the State Board of Education and MSDE to take stronger, more consistent actions to protect students from immigration enforcement activity near schools.
Shannon Wilk (CASA Director of Education) urged MSDE to engage with community advocates and to adopt protective measures after citing cases where local policies allow ICE access to school lobbies or fail to prevent trauma to students and families. Wilk said MSDE has not meaningfully engaged CASA in implementation of the Maryland Values Act and called for transparent, community‑informed protocols.
High school student Riley Ramos (Baltimore City) gave personal testimony about fear and disruption caused by ICE activity near school, saying that safety concerns undermine attendance and students’ ability to learn.
Board members acknowledged the concerns. MSDE staff said they have been coordinating with multiple state offices (governor’s office, attorney general, Maryland Center for School Safety) and have issued guidance reminding superintendents to review safety protocols, communication plans, student privacy, and emotional supports for students. MSDE also noted the department's ongoing communication with districts and that local superintendents are aware of enrollment and safety concerns and are working on local responses.
Next steps: Board members asked MSDE to continue coordination with districts and to consider additional guidance and technical assistance; community groups requested direct and timely collaboration with MSDE.
