The Aurora Public Schools Board of Education unanimously passed a resolution reaffirming inclusive practices and beliefs for all students regardless of documentation status. This resolution was passed during their meeting on Tuesday, February 4.
The resolution embraces our diversity as a district and recognizes that we are an inclusive school community dedicated to serving and supporting all students.
Key highlights from the resolution include:
- Education for All: APS upholds the right of every child to receive a public education, regardless of immigration or documentation status, in accordance with Plyler v. Doe (1982).
- Privacy Protections: APS does not collect or share student or family immigration status, ensuring compliance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).
- Safe & Inclusive Schools: Schools must maintain environments free from discrimination and harassment while fostering emotional and physical safety for students and staff.
- Community Partnerships: APS will collaborate with legal service organizations and community groups to provide resources for immigrant students and families.
- Support for Families: Schools will have policies in place to protect and care for students if a parent or guardian is unable to retrieve them from school due to unforeseen circumstances.
- Know Your Rights Information: APS will work with community partners to host Know Your Rights presentations in students’ and families’ native languages.
- Emergency Contact Updates: Families will be contacted twice a year to update student emergency contact sheets, ensuring accurate records.
Additionally, APS has shared an updated guidance memo regarding requests for access to district property, students or student records by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). While there have been no immigration enforcement actions at our schools, we want our students and families to know that APS is prepared for any possibility and remains committed to protecting student rights and privacy. The memo outlines the district’s procedures for responding to any such requests and reinforces that immigration officials do not have a right to enter APS schools without a warrant signed by a judge.
This collective action reflects APS’ broader mission to celebrate diversity, break down barriers and empower every student to power their potential. We remain steadfast in ensuring that our schools are safe, welcoming and equitable for all—because in APS, the future belongs to everyone.