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Parents and activists urge Paramount Unified to adopt sanctuary protections and remote options as concerns over ICE rise
Summary
Community speakers urged the board to enact sanctuary policies, fund legal defense, provide multilingual 'know your rights' training and expand remote-learning options to protect immigrant students from ICE enforcement ahead of the school year.
Multiple parents, community organizers and former students told the Paramount Unified School District board on July 17 that families are anxious about Immigration and Customs Enforcement activity and want stronger district protections.
"The clock is ticking," said Alfredo Pas, a community activist with Paramount Action Collective, who urged the district to adopt an "ironclad sanctuary resolution," prohibit campus access to DHS agencies without a warrant, ban military recruiters, dedicate at least $500,000 for emergency legal representation and provide multilingual "defend your rights" trainings. Pas framed the request as urgent and said neighboring districts have adopted stronger protections.
Several parents echoed the call for tangible protections and suggested remote-learning options for high-risk students. "Saying that we're training our teachers is simply not enough," Anna Martinez, a Paramount resident, said, asking the board to expand remote learning or broader programs like Ingenuity so families who fear enforcement can keep children safe without in-person attendance.
Speakers also raised practical concerns about student well-being and continuity of services. Gabriel Garcia, a longtime substitute teacher and community member, suggested remote-learning options used elsewhere could reduce anxiety and enrollment loss. Board members listened but did not take an immediate policy vote on sanctuary measures; staff noted legal limitations and that training and procedural protections are already in place for on-campus access.
The board did not vote on a sanctuary resolution at the July 17 meeting. Several speakers asked the district to provide clearer information on steps the board can take and to consider funding or formal policy measures before the school year starts.
What to watch: Board members and staff indicated they will continue to receive public input and that the superintendent's office will follow up when contact information is provided. Any formal policy or resolution would require future board action.
