Dear Englewood Community,
In light of recent events and in our continued commitment to maintaining the safety, dignity, and rights of every member
of our school community, we are reinforcing the following procedures should an ICE visit occur at any Englewood Public
School District (EPSD) building.
1. Immediate Notification and Verification:
If an ICE agent arrives at any EPSD building, it is essential that staff or security immediately notify both the
Superintendent and the building principal. Kindly request that the agent provide proper identification and clearly state the
purpose of their visit. This ensures transparency and helps us take appropriate action.
2. Restrict Access to School Grounds:
ICE agents should not be granted access to any part of the school building or grounds unless they present a valid judicial
warrant signed by a judge. It is critical to ensure that all school property is protected from unnecessa1y intrusion.
3. Protect Student and Family Privacy:
Under no circumstances should staff share any student or family information, including enrollment records or contact
details, with ICE agents. The privacy of our students and their families is paramount, and we must protect it at all costs.
4. Ensure Staff and Student Safety:
In the event of an ICE presence, it is important to remain calm and discreet. Staff should be informed of the situation
without alarming students or families. The goal is to ensure the safety of all individuals involved while maintaining a
sense of normalcy in our school environment.
5. Engage Legal Counsel and Communicate with the Community:
If ICE agents insist on remaining in the building or attempt to enforce action, the Superintendent will immediately contact
the district's legal counsel for guidance and assistance. We will also ensure that communication is provided to our school
community in a timely and appropriate manner.
As per the New Jersey Department of Education (NJDOE), there are a variety of resources designed to protect the
health, safety, and welfare of the K-12 school population. The Office of School Preparedness and Emergency Planning
(OSPEP) provides critical support to school districts in managing such situations and ensuring our ability to respond
effectively to any emergency, including situations involving ICE agents.
We ask that you remain vigilant, informed, and calm, as we navigate these challenging circumstances together. Your
cooperation in adhering to these guidelines will help ensure the safety and well-being of all members of the EPSD family.
Thank you for your continued dedication and support.