Leaders in key educational organizations in Lompoc Unified School District (LUSD) have taken an unprecedented step toward protecting the rights of students with a joint letter to the White House and Department of Homeland Security, the district reports.
In light of ongoing concerns about the impact of immigration policy enforcement on TK-12 school campuses, the Lompoc Unified School District Board of Education, in collaboration with California School Employees Association (CSEA) Chapter 257, American Federation of Teachers (AFT) Local 3151, and district administration, wrote a proposed letter (in English and Spanish) to federal agencies to demonstrate a unified commitment to maintaining schools as safe zones where children and their families can engage in education without fear of detention, deportation, or other immigration-related consequences.
During a regular School Board meeting on Feb. 11, the LUSD Board of Trustees approved the letter, urging the White House and Department of Homeland Security to strengthen protections for schools as safe zones.
Approval of the letter highlights the collective responsibility of the Board, CSEA Chapter 257, AFT Local 3151, and district administration to provide all students with an environment free from fear, ensuring their academic success and well-being.
The letter is part of the district’s ongoing efforts to continue to create learning spaces where all students from all backgrounds, including those who are without legal status, are welcomed and supported.
In a regular meeting on Nov. 12, 2024, the Board of Trustees adopted a Resolution in Support of All Students in LUSD. (The resolution is in English and Spanish.)
“I am proud of our collective efforts to uphold the safety and security of our students and staff as our highest priority, especially in this tumultuous political environment,” said LUSD Superintendent Clara Finneran. “We want our entire community to know that we are doing everything we can to safeguard student rights legally.
“Our vision is for every student in the district to graduate from high school ready to meet the challenges of post-secondary education and the demands of a successful career. Toward that end, we will continue to foster a learning environment that is welcoming, supportive, and inclusive,” she said.
The letter reads, in part: “Allowing enforcement activities on school campuses has far-reaching consequences that extend beyond the classroom. Students who live in constant fear of enforcement struggle with their mental and emotional well-being, leading to absenteeism, decreased academic performance, and long-term setbacks.
“Our teachers, counselors, and staff work tirelessly to create a safe and trusting environment, but when immigration enforcement enters that space, it erodes the very trust we are working to build.
“We urge you to adopt and enforce policies that explicitly prevent immigration enforcement activities on or near TK-12 school campuses. Doing so would honor the intent behind the ‘sensitive locations’ guidelines and reaffirm the federal government’s commitment to both education and the well-being of children.”
“This letter is a testament to our unwavering commitment to the students and families of Lompoc,” said LUSD Board President Franky Caldeira. “By taking this united stand, we send a clear message—not just within our district, but across our community, county, state, and nation. We urge other educational leaders to join us in ensuring that every student can learn in an environment free from fear.”