APS Sensitive to Immigration Concerns

Students' safety a top priority as the '25-26 school year nears.

As school begins, it’s important for all families to note Albuquerque Public Schools is taking proactive measures for student safety and well-being in regards to immigration-related issues. It’s a worry for many in our community, and the district wants to make certain everyone knows schools are a safe place for all students.

“The beginning of the school year should be a time for excitement, and that’s why I want our students, families and the public to know we are working to ensure safety and security for everyone while they’re on our campuses,” said Superintendent Gabriella Blakey. “Our staff members take the safety and well-being of our students seriously. It’s our job. It’s our duty.”

Here are some key things to know on the subject of immigration and how they apply to APS:

• APS believes every student deserves a safe, supportive learning environment.
• A school board policy, JL2, states “immigration officials shall not be on campus at any time.”
• Procedural Directive PJ35 specifies that “any order or directive by immigration officials or local law enforcement officials to any district personnel to bring forth a student for interrogation on their immigration status or to provide any information about a student that may reveal the student’s citizenship or immigration status shall be denied and related immediately to the school principal and APS Police."
• It should be noted that action would trigger the potential involvement of APS legal counsel and the superintendent.
• APS does not require records of any student’s immigration status.
• The district conducts trainings to make certain principals and staff members are aware of these protocols and that they are being followed. These procedures have been accentuated in recent discussions with all principals, as recently as the week leading up to the beginning of the school year.
• Neither the constitution of the state of New Mexico nor state law establishes citizenship as a requirement for school-age children to attend public school.
• The U.S. Supreme Court has ruled citizenship status cannot be used to deny public school admission to school-age children.
• APS schools cannot deny admission to a school-age child (up to age 21) on the basis of known or suspected undocumented status, or engage in any practice to deter or discourage the right of a student to attend public school.

We fully understand today’s climate can cause uncertainty, and yes, worry for families and students. But as was the case during the spring semester, APS is working diligently to keep students safe while they are on our campuses.

Q and A

Can Immigration and Customs Enforcement personnel go onto an APS campus?

According to an APS procedural directive, any order or directive from immigration or law enforcement officials to compel a district employee to bring forth a student for questions on immigration status would be denied. That request would immediately be relayed to the school principal and APS Police.

Q: So, would it stop there?

A: Not necessarily. Such a request also would be relayed to the superintendent and APS legal counsel.

Q: APS keeps a variety of records on students, including health, academics and personal information. Does it keep records on a student’s immigration status?

A: No.

Q: Can APS deny the right to an education to anyone, including a school-age individual who is undocumented?

A: No.

Q: Does APS consult with community groups about immigration concerns?

A: Yes, often. Many of those groups provide input on the atmosphere in the community and thoughts on student safety.

Q: What entity is in charge of APS campuses?

A: APS controls its campuses; however if there is a call or incident at a bus stop, APS Police will respond to assist.