SJSD students, educators concerned for ICE raids

President Trump ordered Immigration and Customs Enforcement to start mass deportations, students and educators in St. Joseph are concerned for safety. 

ICE agents were granted permission by President Trump to enter churches and schools.

In an email sent to News-Press NOW, an anonymous source explained, "I work with English Language Development students at SJSD. Due to the current political climate, some immigrant students have been so worried about the potential of deportation that they are bringing their immigration documents with them TO SCHOOL."

"I think there is some concern," said St. Joseph School District Superintendent, Dr. Gabe Edgar. "And one thing I would tell you too, we have been taking a proactive approach to kind of staying ahead of it."

In staying proactive, SJSD is working with local law enforcement agencies on the matter.  

"Local law enforcement, who we are working collaboratively with, said the school is a safe place," said Edgar. 

Edgar added that the raids effect numerous stakeholders throughout St. Joseph. 

"We're working collaboratively with all stakeholders," said Edgar. "It's not just us, I mean, there's a lot of other businesses, entities, police department, that are affected by this. So we're trying to all work together to do what's best for the kids in St. Joseph. 

Edgar was adamant about protecting students throughout the District.  

"As far as the policies and procedures in place, you know, nothing legally has changed," said Edgar. "We'll continue to follow our policies and procedures to protect all kids."

Superintendent Edgar encourages students to continue to attend school with a smile, just like they have been doing every day. 

A message to staff and parents of the District said, "We want to emphasize that SJSD does not collect immigration documentation. Undocumented children, as well as children of undocumented parents, have the same legal right to attend public schools as U.S. citizens and permanent residents."

The message also said that the District's legal team is reviewing President Trump's executive orders, and provide guidance to the District moving forward.