Addressing Recent Immigration Policy Changes

Dear Telluride School District Community,

At the Telluride School District (TSD), our mission and goal is to help each and every student achieve personal success through quality academics while addressing individual needs through a safe and healthy community. We understand that recent changes in federal immigration enforcement may be a source of concern for some families. Please know that we remain steadfast in our commitment to providing a safe, welcoming, and supportive environment for all students.

Every Child Has the Right to an Education; this is about the children. Under federal and state law, every child has the right to a public education, regardless of their immigration status. The U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in Plyler v. Doe (1982) ensures that all children are entitled to a free public education. As a school district, we do not deny any child access to school, nor do we collect or retain immigration-related information. Schools must be places where children feel safe, supported, and empowered to learn, and we are committed to maintaining that environment.

Student Privacy, Safety, and Well-Being Are Our Priorities; TSD upholds strict policies to protect student privacy. We do not share personal student information, such as addresses or phone numbers, unless legally required. If any government agency requests student records, we consult with our legal counsel to ensure compliance with applicable laws before responding. Additionally, federal law protects student confidentiality, and we will never release information without parent/guardian consent or a court order.

Our schools also prioritize security. All visitors, including government officials, must check in at the main office and provide a valid reason for being on campus. Students are only released to authorized individuals listed by parents or guardians. We strongly encourage families to review and update emergency contact information through PowerSchool or by contacting their school’s main office. Keeping this information current ensures that only trusted individuals can pick up students in an emergency.

As a school community, we are dedicated to creating a safe and productive learning environment that allows every child to succeed in school and in life. This requires minimizing disruptions, distractions, and any trauma that might affect our students. Our shared goal is to help every child grow, thrive, and achieve their dreams.

Addressing Recent Immigration Policy Changes; Over the past few weeks, we have received many questions from students, staff, and families regarding national immigration policy changes and how they may impact our schools. We recognize that these discussions may have caused uncertainty, and we want to assure you that our schools remain safe, supportive spaces for every student, staff member, and family.

While we do not control federal immigration policies, we stay informed on them.  We have plans in place in the event of a visit from immigration authorities and are prepared to support our students while remaining in compliance with all laws, regulations and policies.  Though federal policy currently allows agencies access to school buildings under certain specific circumstances, our district has policies and procedures in place that regulate who can access our campuses and interact with students during the school day.  These policies and procedures have been reviewed with all staff to ensure that our district maintains a safe and secure learning environment.

Additionally, we have heard of several rumors around town regarding the presence of ICE agents in our area, including at the school.  Local law enforcement agencies have assured us that all of these rumors are false.  We have not had any ICE visits to date and remain cautiously optimistic that our small size and remoteness makes it unlikely we will have any visits.  However, that will not keep us from being as prepared as possible.

Below is what the district will and will not do, and what families can do, related to this topic.
What TSD Will Do:

• Ensure a safe, inclusive, and supportive learning environment.
• Provide guidance to families on updating emergency contact information.
• Inform families immediately of any verified ICE visits to our schools.

What TSD Won’t Do:

• Offer legal counsel to families or students.
• Collect or retain student immigration status.
• Release student or family information unless legally required.
• Spread unverified rumors regarding ICE visits.

What Families Can Do:

• Keep emergency contact information up to date. Each student should have at least three emergency contacts—trusted adults who can pick them up if necessary.
• Identify authorized individuals, including older siblings, who can pick up your student in case a parent or guardian is unavailable.
• Update or verify emergency contacts through PowerSchool or by contacting your child’s school for assistance.
• Inform law enforcement immediately if you witness firsthand the presence of ICE agents.

We recognize that this topic is deeply personal for many in our community. We value every student and staff member, and we are committed to fostering an environment where all feel safe, respected, and supported. Your child’s well-being remains at the heart of everything we do.

Thank you for being part of the Telluride School District community and for entrusting us with your child’s education and safety. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out.

Sincerely,
John Pandolfo
Superintendent