The Phoenix Union School District (PXU) has announced it will not permit immigration enforcement on any of its 24 campuses, reinforcing its commitment to protecting students regardless of their immigration status.
The decision comes as President Donald Trump begins mass deportation efforts following his second-term inauguration on Jan. 20. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed on Jan. 24 that deportation flights had started, emphasizing the administration’s strict stance on illegal immigration.
“President Trump is sending a strong and clear message to the entire world: if you illegally enter the United States of America, you will face severe consequences,” Leavitt said in a statement.
Locally, the DEA, Department of Justice, and Department of Homeland Security are coordinating immigration enforcement efforts in the Phoenix area, sparking protests such as the recent demonstration at 75th Avenue and McDowell Road.
In response, PXU has adopted a “Safe Zone” resolution asserting that all children have the right to a free public education, regardless of immigration status. The resolution prohibits Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) or other federal, state, or local agencies from conducting immigration enforcement on school grounds.
“Federal immigration enforcement activity, by any means, harmfully disrupts our learning environment,” the resolution states. PXU’s policies ensure compliance with privacy laws, including the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), to safeguard student information.
PXU Superintendent Thea Andrade issued a letter to parents reaffirming the district’s commitment to providing free meals, transportation, and educational services without disruption.
“PXU and SchoolMessenger never share the information you provide, and we follow FERPA guidelines, which prohibit schools from sharing personally identifiable information without prior written parental consent,” the letter assured.
To assist families, PXU plans to hold “Know Your Rights” workshops, offering guidance on legal interactions with government agencies regarding immigration status.
The district’s stance underscores its dedication to creating a secure and inclusive environment for all students, even amid increased federal immigration enforcement.
