Changes in ICE Arrest Policies Impact Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools (CMS) is adapting to a significant policy shift allowing Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents to make arrests at schools, following a Department of Homeland Security (DHS) directive. This change marks a departure from restrictions set during the Biden administration, which had limited such activities at sensitive locations like schools, churches, and hospitals.
The DHS now encourages local law enforcement to exercise “common sense” in assisting with deportations. In response to this development, Board of Education Member Liz Monterrey expressed concerns: “This reversal is deeply troubling. This decision may discourage families from sending their children to school or seeking critical resources, which could lead to even higher absenteeism and dropouts.”
CMS serves a diverse student population of over 140,000, representing 175 countries. Monterrey assured the community that the school system is actively addressing the implications of the new directive. “I want the community to know that we’re working on this, and that we’re navigating this. This is new waters for us and I want everyone to remain calm,” she stated.
Monterrey emphasized that undocumented students are legally entitled to attend public schools and access the same educational opportunities as their peers. She advised that if ICE agents appear at a school, administrators should verify their credentials, review any warrants, and promptly inform parents.
The CMS Board of Education’s Intergovernmental Relationships Committee is scheduled to meet on Friday at 11 a.m. Monterrey intends to focus on strategies to support undocumented students during this meeting.
