Highline Public Schools vow to shield students from immigration raids

In response to heightened concerns around immigration enforcement, Highline Public Schools issued a statement Friday, June 13, 2025 outlining its official procedures for handling any visits from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) or other government agencies.

The district emphasized its commitment to protecting every student, regardless of citizenship or immigration status, under state and federal law.

“All students — regardless of citizenship or immigration status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other part of their identity — have the right to a public education,” the district said in its June 13 announcement. “This is protected by state and federal law, and it’s a value we uphold every day.”

Highline’s protocol, based on Board Policy 4300, calls for school staff to immediately notify the Superintendent’s Office if an official arrives on campus.

Officials are not allowed into school buildings without proper judicial documentation, and they are required to remain on public sidewalks until their credentials and authority are verified by the district.

What Happens If an Immigration Official Comes to a Highline School

1. The Superintendent’s Office is Notified Immediately. School staff will contact the Superintendent’s Office right away.
2. Officials Will Not Be Let Inside the School. Staff will ask the official to stay on the public sidewalk while the Superintendent’s Office takes next steps.
3. ID and Documentation Are Requested. Officials must show valid identification and a court order or judicial warrant.
4. All Documents Are Reviewed. The Superintendent’s Office carefully checks that any documents are legally valid and clearly state who the official is, why they are there, and that they have legal authority.
5. Authorization is Confirmed. Officials must have agency authorization to enter school grounds.
6. A Decision is Made. The Superintendent’s Office decides if the official can proceed and notifies the principal.
7. Parents or Guardians Are Contacted. If a student is involved, families will be notified.
8. A Highline Representative Will Be Present. If a conversation happens with a student, a trained district representative will be present to ensure all procedures are followed.
9. Student Privacy is Protected. Student records or other information will not be shared unless legally required.

The district also encouraged families to access support through its Immigrant and Refugee Family Resources page, which includes guidance from legal experts and community organizations.

“We want families to know that resources and support are available,” the district stated.