Hello William Wirt Students and Families,
I want to acknowledge and address some concerns you may have regarding Immigration and Customs Enforcement(ICE) raids and their impact on our community. Our school and district remain dedicated to fostering a safe, supportive, and welcoming environment for every student...every family...every day.
On January 20, 2025, Acting Department of Homeland Security Secretary Benjamin Huffman issued two directives affecting long-standing federal policy that schools are “sensitive areas.” ICE and other federal agencies may now conduct arrests, interviews, searches, surveillance, or other immigration enforcement activities at or near schools, although DHS “trusts them to use common sense.” PGCPS is assessing the impact of this proposed policy change.
My team and I are here to support and connect you with resources if needed. Please have a look at the Know Your Rights Folder, as well as the Immigration Resources shared by the school district. These tools include recommendations to help families proactively plan for their family's needs.
As I conclude this message, I want to emphasize our unwavering commitment to safety, well-being, and success. We understand that concerns about ICE can bring uncertainty, but our school is here to support and protect our community.
As a school, we encourage open dialogue between students and families and invite you to reach out if you have any questions or need assistance. Together, we will continue to uphold our values of inclusivity, respect, and compassion, ensuring that every student and family feels secure and valued.
Thank you for being an integral part of our school community.
Warm Regards,
~Principal Simley
