NHCS, UNCW offer guidance to students, parents after NC immigration raids

1 hour ago

WWAY News,

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Officer (Photo: U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement)

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — Both New Hanover County Schools and UNCW are offering guidance to students, parents, and staff about Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) activity in North Carolina.

A statement attributed to Superintendent Christopher Barnes says: there has been no HSI enforcement activity on any New Hanover County Schools campus.

Barnes says he has been in direct communication with the New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office (NHCSO) and other agencies and have also spoken with other superintendents around the state. Barnes adds that the school district has a strong partnership with the Sheriff’s Office and remains in constant communication so the district can respond quickly and appropriately to any developments.

HSI has reiterated that their enforcement priorities are strictly limited to individuals who pose a danger to public safety,” Barnes writes. “Principals also have clear protocols to follow in these types of situations, and have received clear communication from my office.”

Barnes reiterates:

NHCS does not collect or request immigration status information.
Student records are protected by strict privacy laws and procedures.
If community enforcement ever results in a child being left without a caregiver, we will follow our established safety protocols to ensure the child is supported and safe.

Meanwhile, UNCW sent out a statement reminding students of the university’s guidelines for visits and data requests from law enforcement or government agents.

UNCW will always comply with applicable federal and state law and follow University of North Carolina System policies, including those that protect student and employee privacy.

The statement tells students: If you are approached by any individual claiming to be a law enforcement agent while on campus:

Politely ask them to wait while you follow our campus protocols.
Immediately contact UNCW Police & Public Safety at 910.962.2222.
Connect with the Office of the General Counsel at 910.962.4027 for additional guidance.

UNCW also says international students, faculty and staff should carry evidence of their immigration status at all times.