MARLBOROUGH – On Thursday, Jan. 30, Mary Murphy, superintendent for Marlborough Public Schools, issued a statement to parents and guardians of students regarding recent changes to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) policies.
“There have been many news reports this week regarding a change in ICE policy allowing ICE agents to enter school buildings,” said Murphy. “I would like to assure all families that the Marlborough Public Schools educates all students regardless of race, color, sex, gender identity, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, or immigration status. We do not ask or collect information on immigration status upon school registration.”
Murphy reiterated school policy on unauthorized visitors.
“Staff and student safety remains our top priority. Our office staff confirms that each visitor is authorized to enter a school before entry is allowed,” she said.
ICE agents are allowed to entered school buildings if they have been issued a judicial warrant. Murphy said, “If a student is involved, their parents would immediately be notified by the school. Under the Family Education and Privacy Rights Act of 1974 (FERPA), we cannot give a student’s personally identifiable information contained in education records to third parties without the written consent of a parent or guardian (or the student if they are 18 years of age or older).”
Murphy is asking all families to update their ASPEN emergency contact information.
“Please ensure that you have two active emergency contacts that you are authorizing that the school can contact if they cannot reach you. Some families have also created emergency plans for their students, if you have, please share those plans with your building principals,” she said.
“Our schools are committed to always maintaining a safe environment where all students can learn, grow and succeed,” Murphy added.