Safe and Welcoming Schools for All Students and Families

 

 

 

Dear OCS Community,

Orange County Schools recognizes the concerns and issues raised by recent changes in law and policies concerning immigration, and the impacts and related fear that this may cause for our students, families, and community.

OCS has always complied with federal and state laws and will continue to do so. We also affirm the right of each child in North Carolina to a free and public education in a safe environment, granted by our state constitution. It is our goal to continue fulfilling that promise. 

We want you to know how OCS is prepared to follow established school safety protocols, Board policy, and state and federal laws that protect the rights, safety, and dignity of every child:

Every Student Has Constitutional Rights to Safety and Privacy.

The safety, well-being, and education of our students are the highest priorities for Orange County Schools. Student records and personally identifiable information (PII) about students found in student records are protected as confidential under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).

Consistent with FERPA and Board policy, OCS will allow the production of student records or PII to immigration officials only as authorized or required by law.

Orange County Schools Does Not Discriminate Based on Immigration Status.

Under the 1982 U.S. Supreme Court case Plyler v. Doe, every child has a constitutional right to public education regardless of immigration status. Orange County Schools believes every child has an equal right to a sound basic education. 

The district does not ask families or students for any information about immigration status, and no such information is contained in student records. OCS will continue to honor all laws protecting the privacy of student records as outlined in Board policies. 

We Will Continue to Support Our Students.

Orange County Schools “acknowledges the dignity and worth of all students and employees and strives to create a safe, orderly, caring, and inviting school environment to facilitate student learning and achievement” (Board Policy 1710). We remain committed to ensuring our schools are safe and welcoming spaces for all students and families. 

Our schools will continue to support our students’ academic growth and their preparation for life. We encourage all our families to contact their school’s student support staff if their child has concerns or social-emotional needs at any time. 

School administrators have been reminded of the procedures that law enforcement agencies must follow when interacting with students on campus. If law enforcement seeks access to a school, we will consult with legal counsel to ensure compliance with applicable laws.

We aim to fulfill our mission and our promise: “to educate children in a safe, inclusive environment where we engage, challenge, and inspire them to reach their maximum potential.” 

Click here for a statement by our Board of Education (in English and Spanish) from the January 27, 2025 meeting. 

As one community, we want to ensure that you and your family always feel safe and valued as part of Orange County Schools.