On January 21, 2025, the Superintendent of Worcester Public Schools (WPS) Rachel Monárrez issued an important message regarding their dedication to providing a safe and supportive environment for all their students. Regardless of students’ immigration status, race, religion, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, or sexual orientation, WPS expressed their commitment to ensure the protection of these rights and students’ well-being.

Here’s what you need to know

• No immigration status is required for WPS administration or enrollment.
• There will be no coordination whatsoever between WPS and the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

• The paperwork and records of students will not be shared with ICE or any immigration official unless it has been required by a court order or by parental consent.

• No ICE officials will be allowed on school premises unless they possess a criminal judicial warrant signed by a federal judge.

• Student dismissals will only be permitted if they have been authorized in writing by a parent/guardian.

Along with this, the Superintendent assured families that principals and school-based staff are all receiving training on the protection of students and dealing with ICE.

On January 22, 2025, WPS sent out another message reaffirming their earlier statement. After rumored sightings of immigration officials and ICE waiting at bus stops to detain students, WPS confirmed that these sightings were false. They also clarified that their earlier message had simply been a precaution.

“Yesterday, Worcester Public Schools issued this letter to students, staff, and families to clarify existing policies and procedures for how the district would handle any future interactions with federal immigration authorities should they arise,” said Superintendent Monárrez.

At South, where there is a significant immigration population, the recent change in policies has caused anxiety in many. One student expressed their deep concern for their family and friends.

“The amount of fear going around these days is heartbreaking…honestly I’m so scared for so many people, but the message from the Superintendent definitely calms me down a little bit,” said the student. The student chose to remain anonymous.

Superintendent Monárrez reiterated WPS’ mission for public education, working to maintain it as a cornerstone of our democracy and a space in which every child can succeed regardless of their background.

WPS asks for anyone with concerns or questions to review their recently sent messages, visit mass.gov to understand the state law, speak with the Transportation Department at 508-799-3152, or speak with their child’s school principal.