The Charlottesville City School Board released a statement Monday promising to “provide a supportive and affirming educational experience for all students, including our immigrant and LGBTQ+ communities.”
The statement was released in response to concerns from community members about executive orders signed by President Donald Trump.
“As a school division, Charlottesville City Schools remains committed to fostering a learning environment where every student—regardless of place of birth, gender identity, sexual orientation or background—feels safe, valued and supported.
“We recognize that these federal policy changes have created uncertainty and concern, and we want to assure you that our focus remains on the well-being of all students and staff.”
Schools are maintaining regular routines, schedules and curricula.
The school system said it is committed to upholding the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act and will protect sensitive information about students.
“We will work closely with legal counsel, educational organizations and our community partners to understand the implications of these executive actions and to advocate for policies that align with our commitment to equity and student safety,” the board said.
“We will continue to uphold our commitment to the ideal that we are ‘Better Together.’”
Albemarle County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Matthew S. Haas released a similar statement on Jan. 24 saying its schools would remain “a safe and welcoming place for all.”
“I want to assure our students and their families that our schools are—and will remain—a safe and welcoming place for all,” said Haas. “Albemarle County Public Schools does not, and may not, and will not ask students or families about their immigration status.
“We understand the concern about immigration officials potentially appearing at our schools. Recently, I was asked about the role of our school resource officers. Let me be clear: students or their family members will not be questioned, detained or taken into custody on ACPS premises except when a law enforcement officer presents a valid warrant for an arrest on criminal charges,” he said.
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Crystal Graham
