Dear Ellenville School Community,
I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to address recent guidance provided by Governor Kathy Hochul, the New York State Attorney General, and the New York State Education Department (NYSED) concerning the rights of immigrant students and families within our school district. The full document can be found here. This guidance reaffirms the strong protections in place for all students in New York State, regardless of their immigration status.
First and foremost, I want to emphasize that Ellenville Central School District is a safe, welcoming environment for all students and families. We are committed to ensuring that every student has equal access to a high-quality education and is treated with dignity, respect, and fairness.
Recent guidance issued by state authorities underscores the following key points:
Right to Education: All children, regardless of immigration status, have the right to attend public schools in New York State. No student will be excluded or discriminated against based on their immigration status.
Confidentiality and Privacy: Schools are not permitted to collect or report information about a student’s or family’s immigration status. Information related to a student’s immigration status, including citizenship or residency, will not be shared with federal immigration authorities without parental consent or a court order.
Protection from Immigration Enforcement: Immigration authorities are prohibited from conducting enforcement actions at school without a judicial warrant.
Non-Discrimination: All students are entitled to a safe learning environment free from discrimination or harassment, regardless of their or their family’s immigration status.
We understand that families may have concerns or questions about these protections, and we want to assure you that our staff is committed to support all students and families through any challenges they may face. Should you have any specific questions or require assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out to our school administration.
The Ellenville Central School District remains dedicated to maintaining an environment where all students feel safe, valued, and supported. We are here to serve every member of our community, and we will continue to advocate for the rights of all our students.
Thank you for your continued trust and support in our schools. Together, we will ensure that every child has the opportunity to succeed and reach their full potential.
Sincerely,
Lisa A. Wiles
Superintendent of Schools