Statement from the Superintendent: Protecting the Rights of Our Students and Families
January 20, 2025
Dear ETHS Students and Families:
Evanston Township High School District 202 is committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment for all students and their families—regardless of race or ethnicity, ethnic group identification, ancestry, nationality, country of national origin, or immigration status. We understand that potential changes in federal immigration policy may cause uncertainty and concern for some members of our school community.
We are fully committed to protecting the rights of all students to a free public education, regardless of their immigration status. We will uphold our responsibility to ensure that every student has access to education, resources, and a safe space to learn. To this end, we are providing guidance to administrators and the appropriate staff regarding student rights and protections and protocols for handling potential interactions with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
ETHS will continue to be a safe haven for students and staff to the fullest extent permitted by law. In accordance with the Evanston Welcoming City Ordinance and the District 202 Safe Haven Resolution:
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ETHS will not release immigration status or related information in confidential student or staff records except in rare cases where there is a court order.
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ETHS will not coordinate with ICE or grant ICE agents access to our facilities without a judicial warrant signed by a federal judge.
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ETHS will not allow any immigration enforcement activities to disrupt the school’s learning environment.
Illinois state law provides many important protections for immigrant communities, and we urge our students and families to seek further information and support from the many immigration services and resources available to assist them.
Within ETHS, students and families can reach out to counselors, social workers, psychologists, or a member of the administration for assistance. We are here to help connect you to the right resources and ensure you have the support you need.
Together, we will continue to uphold our shared values of equity, respect, and safety for all members of the ETHS community.
Sincerely,
Marcus A. Campbell, Ed.D.
Superintendent