Board fast‑tracks policy updates to limit school cooperation with immigration enforcement

The Stanford Fell City Schools board on Feb. 10 heard and approved (first reading with waiver of a second reading) a set of policy updates intended to align district procedures with recent state guidance about immigration enforcement and student privacy.

Policy presenter (district counsel/policy staff) described a new board policy and administrative regulation titled "Response to Immigration Enforcement." The policy, staff said, "prohibits staff from sharing student or employee immigration status and restricts enforcement officers' access to any school areas without a judicial warrant," and includes procedures for staff interactions with enforcement officers, documentation requirements and reporting to the governing board while maintaining student privacy.

Staff also requested waiver of a second reading so the district can submit required updates to the California Department of Education by the statutory deadline; additional revisions to student‑records, access to district records, comprehensive safety plan, and directory‑information policies were presented as companion items to integrate the same legal protections.

Why it matters: The changes clarify day‑to‑day procedures at school sites, create a compliance coordinator role for uniform complaints, and standardize how the district responds if enforcement activity occurs on campus. Trustees emphasized outreach and education for families about the implications of social‑media and data sharing.

What’s next: The board approved the motions to accept the first reading and waive the second reading to meet the state submission deadline; staff will post/update procedures and provide guidance to principals and school staff.