Media Release
February 19, 2025

 

Board Outlines Policies and Resources for Scholars and Families 

Compton, CA – The Compton Unified School District (CUSD) Board of Trustees reaffirms its steadfast commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of all scholars in response to current national events.

“We understand that recent concerns regarding the possibility of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents on school campuses have caused anxiety among scholars, parents, and staff,” said the Board Members collectively. “Tonight, we want to reaffirm our unwavering commitment to ensuring that every child in our district feels safe, protected, and supported while receiving their education.”

During the most recent Compton Unified School District Regular Meeting of the Board of Trustees on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, district leaders outlined the comprehensive steps taken to protect students and provide reassurance to families.

Commitment to Legal Protections and Compliance

Compton Unified School District remains fully compliant with California state laws that safeguard students from immigration enforcement activities on school grounds. On February 3, 2025, the district issued the California Department of Justice Quick Reference for School Officials to all school administrators.

Additionally, CUSD has reviewed Assembly Bill 699 (AB 699) and other relevant legislation to confirm that ICE agents cannot access student records or enter school campuses without proper legal authority.

Transparent Communication with Families

To address concerns directly, Compton Unified sent a letter via ParentSquare to all district families clarifying that:

• CUSD does not collect or maintain records of students’ immigration status.
• There is no mechanism to share such information with ICE.
• Schools remain safe spaces for all students, and there have been no reports of ICE activity on or near district campuses.

Furthermore, district officials are actively reviewing the latest guidance from California Attorney General Rob Bonta to determine if any updates require adjustments to existing policies and staff protocols.

Strengthening Student and Family Protections

Compton Unified has reinforced guidance to school administrators on how to respond if ICE agents attempt to enter a school. The district’s top priority is ensuring the safety and security of students, and all staff members have been directed to follow strict legal protocols in such situations.

Support for Emotional and Psychological Well-Being

Compton Unified School District understands the fear of immigration enforcement can cause significant emotional distress for students and their families.

• CUSD is dedicated to providing mental health resources, and our schools are equipped with school counselors and mental health professionals to assist students experiencing distress.
• The Board also reaffirmed its commitment to previously adopted policies, including Resolution 19/20-1025, number 19/20-03 dated July 17, 2019, Identifying CUSD As a Local Agency Who Will Cooperate with Community Based and Legal Service Organizations Providing Counseling and Advice to Immigrant Families Over Immigration Issues and Declaration That CUSD Believes That School Age Children Must Not Be Excluded From Receiving Educational Opportunities
• The Board also reaffirms previously adopted Board Policy 18/19-1088: Adoption of Revised Board Policies to Include ‘Immigration Status’ as Part of the Protected Class, according to the Requirements of AB 699 and Related Policies to ensure that all students, regardless of immigration status or country of birth, have the opportunity to pursue their education without undue fear or risk.

A Commitment to Safe Learning Environments

The Compton Unified School District Board of Trustees reaffirmed its duty to serve the Compton community.

“Our district stands firm in its commitment to protecting the rights of all students and families,” said the CUSD Board of Trustees in a collective statement. “Schools should be places of learning, growth, and safety—not fear. We will remain vigilant, responsive, and proactive in ensuring that every child feels secure in their education. We thank our community for their trust, and we will continue working together to uphold these values.”

For more information on CUSD’s policies and resources for families, please visit the Compton Unified School District website at: www.compton.k12.ca.us

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About Compton Unified School District

Compton Unified School District, whose Superintendent is Dr. Darin Brawley, is located in the south-central region of Los Angeles County. CUSD encompasses the city of Compton and portions of the cities of Carson and Los Angeles. The district currently serves more than 17,000 students at 36 sites. CUSD is a district that is elevating, with a high school graduation rate of 93%, dramatic facilities improvements, 88% college acceptance, and a focus on STEAM throughout all schools. The mission of the Compton Unified School District is to empower leaders to lead, teachers to teach, and students to learn by fostering an environment that encourages leaders and teachers to be visionary, innovative, and accountable for the achievement of all students. CUSD schools have received numerous awards, including Golden Bell Awards, National Blue Ribbon School designations, and Top 10 LA Public Schools by Innovate LA. CUSD is also a member of the League of Innovative Schools. The District’s Superintendent, Dr. Darin Brawley, was named 2019 Superintendent of the Year by the Los Angeles County Office of Education. For more information, visit http://www.compton.k12.ca.us

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We believe in Compton Scholars.