Wayzata Public Schools

Immigration Resources

Wayzata Public Schools remains committed to creating an environment where every student is respected, valued and can thrive. Our students, and the diverse experiences they bring, are what make us proud to be Wayzata. Regardless of immigration status, all children in the U.S. have the right to attend public schools, and we are committed to serving each of our students.

Recent federal actions related to the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations in Minnesota have created uncertainty and raised understandable concerns for many families in our community. Immigration status is not information school districts can ask for, per Plyler v Doe, 457 U.S. 202 (1982). We do not ask for or keep records regarding a family’s immigration status.

To clarify:

  • It is against federal law for schools to collect information about immigration status for students or families, and we do not do so. 
  • If a family discloses immigration status to the school, it is not documented or added to any student files.

Procedures for ICE or U.S. Border Patrol presence in our schools

Over the past several months, we have communicated protocols to our principals and district administrators in the event ICE and/or U.S. Border Patrol agents arrive at any of our schools. Our administrative procedures are aligned with legal requirements and limitations. We have also shared key information with all staff about what to do in the event that ICE is present.

As part of the Family Educational Rights Privacy Act (FERPA), we are not permitted to share private data without a lawfully issued subpoena or court order. If one is presented to WPS, FERPA requires schools to notify parents before complying with the warrant. 

Our protocols include the following:

  • The principal is notified immediately. Building leadership contacts district administration and legal counsel right away.
  • Legal documentation is verified. School administrators request and review any judicial warrant or subpoena to confirm the purpose and authority of the visit.
  • No student or family contact occurs without legal guidance. Any communication or action involving students or families is coordinated by district leadership and legal counsel.
  • Access to the building may be declined. If proper legal authorization is not provided, school administrators will deny entry and refer the agent to district leadership.
  • Standard District Emergency Protocols will be utilized as needed.

As always, we closely monitor these events to do what we can to bring peace of mind and support to our students, families, and staff.

Talking to children

If you are wondering how to have conversations at home about complex or difficult topics, below are some resources that might provide guidance for those family conversations.

Resources for families

Video resources

Planning and Preparing

As we navigate this together, we want to provide families with resources, information and steps you can take to protect your well-being and stay informed. Below, you will find tools and actions that may help you plan, prepare and stay safe.

Emergency Contacts
Be sure your emergency contacts are up-to-date in Skyward Family Access. Here are instructions for updating contact information. 
 
Family Plan
Discuss your emergency contacts and plan as a family. Consider including in your family plan ways to communicate if you are separated and access to necessary medications. Examples of Family Plans:

 Important Documents
Keep copies of important documents accessible and safe. These include birth certificates, passports, medical records, etc. Another document that can be considered is a Delegation of Parental Authority (DOPA). This document, once signed and notarized, allows another adult to take care of your child if you are unable to do so. The DOPA is specific to each child, effective for one year and does not override your parental rights.

Community Resources

Wayzata Public Schools cannot provide legal advice. However, there are many local community resources available to families. Below is a list of some local resources:

We are sharing these resources for informational purposes only and do not endorse any organization's point of view.

As noted above, we cannot provide legal guidance, but we continue to be available to support the well-being of students. Counselors, social workers and administrators are available to students in need.