Federal officials were recently turned away at two Los Angeles Unified School District elementary schools, marking the first reported incident of U.S. authorities attempting entry into a public school amidst fears of immigration enforcement. The events unfolded earlier this week at Lillian Street Elementary School and Russell Elementary School, both situated in South Los Angeles’ Florence-Graham neighborhood.
On Monday, two individuals claiming to be representatives of a federal agency arrived at Lillian Street Elementary School’s main office, as detailed in a message sent to parents and other stakeholders by school officials. A similar situation occurred at Russell Elementary School. Subsequently, it was confirmed that the individuals were from the Homeland Security Investigations unit within the Department of Homeland Security, rather than Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents. Despite their arrival, district protocols were followed, and school administrators denied entry to the individuals who eventually left the premises.
In a statement issued to both school communities, LAUSD emphasized its unwavering commitment to the well-being and education of all students, indicating that keeping school campuses off-limits to immigration authorities aligns with district policy. The Department of Homeland Security has not provided immediate comment on the matter.
LAUSD Superintendent Alberto Carvalho responded to the incidents, asserting that schools are sanctuaries of inspiration, protection, empathy, and knowledge, vowing to confront fear and threat with courage and determination. Acknowledging the reported activity at Lillian Street Elementary School and Russell Elementary School, an LAUSD spokesperson affirmed that the district’s protocols appear effective. Other schools within the district issued precautionary messages to their communities in light of the situation, citing reports of immigration enforcement activity.
Principal Stefani Williams of Rockdale Elementary School in Eagle Rock informed her school community that LAUSD was aware of such reports and emphasized the importance of adhering to state law, which prohibits granting immigration agents access to K-12 campuses without a warrant. In preparation for potential immigration enforcement measures under the current administration, LAUSD has mandated employee training on limiting assistance or documentation provided to federal immigration authorities.
Back in January, Superintendent Carvalho expressed optimism that keeping immigration enforcement agents off campus entirely would be possible, questioning the necessity or appropriateness of conducting legal proceedings within school premises. He emphasized the district’s stance on barring federal entities from enforcing immigration policy within schools. The L.A. Board of Education has passed resolutions affirming L.A. Unified as a sanctuary for immigrants, further solidifying the district’s commitment to protecting its diverse student population.
