'We believe that all students should be able to learn without being afraid': Fort Wayne Community Schools issues letter to immigrant families
Jan 23, 2025
FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WANE) -- Fort Wayne Community Schools (FWCS) issued a letter to parents Thursday afternoon reassuring them they would stay committed to not sharing parents' or students' immigration status.
This comes after the Trump administration rescinded policies against arrests in “sensitive locations”, following the nine executive orders signed regarding border-related policies. One of the policies signed, attempted to end birthright citizenship but was stopped by a federal judge Thursday.
In Fort Wayne Community Schools' letter to parents, they outline that FWCS wants to make sure that, "all students and families feel safe and welcome at school. This is true no matter what their immigration status, where they are from, their race, religion, sexual orientation, or anything else."
Per FWCS policy, they are not allowed to share student information with anyone without parental permission.
According to FWCS, the district is the 3 most diverse district in the state with one of their core values being, "The diversity and uniqueness of our district and community."
Find the full letter down below.
Dear FWCS Families,We understand that many families in our district are worried and unsure about what is happening. This is because of discussions happening across the country, especially about changes to immigration laws. Fort Wayne Community Schools wants to make sure that all students and families feel safe and welcome at school. This is true no matter what their immigration status, where they are from, their race, religion, sexual orientation, or anything else. We value our students from different backgrounds. We believe that all students should be able to learn without being afraid.FWCS is committed to not asking about a student or parent's immigration status. This includes during enrollment. We will continue to follow school safety rules, district policy, and state and federal laws. These laws tell us who can contact students during the school day and who can see student documents. FWCS is not allowed to share personal student information with anyone without permission from the parents. We also do not allow people to enter our school buildings without permission and proper clearance.When families are unsure about things, Fort Wayne Community Schools will be a place where students can keep learning and growing. If you or your child need help, please contact your child's school.