The Richland School District is committed to providing every student with a safe, welcoming, and inclusive learning environment. In light of recent events in our region related to federal immigration enforcement, we want all families to know that our schools remain safe places for students to learn, connect, and receive the support they need. We also want to inform you about our procedures in the event that federal authorities are present on or near our school campuses.

The Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) has released Protections for Immigrant Students in Washington’s K–12 Public Schools, which outlines how districts must ensure student safety, uphold student rights, and comply with state and federal law.

We encourage families to review the full OSPI guidance here: https://ospi.k12.wa.us/sites/default/files/2025-01/protections-immigrant-students-washington-public-schools.pdf

What This Means for Families:

Washington public schools have both a constitutional duty and a moral obligation to provide a free, high-quality education to every student residing in our boundaries. State and federal law prohibit discrimination based on race, color, national origin, or immigration status.

When a student enrolls in the Richland School District:

• We do not ask for or record immigration status.
• We do not initiate contact with federal immigration authorities.
• We follow clear procedures to protect student safety in the event that immigration enforcement is attempted on or near school property.

Required Procedures if Immigration Authorities Are On or Near School Campuses

If immigration enforcement activity occurs on or near school campuses:

• Staff immediately notify the principal or designee.
• No staff member engages directly with immigration officials.
• The principal requests to see a valid judicial warrant or court order. 
• The principal forwards any document or request to the RSD Student Services Administration.
• District leadership verifies the legitimacy of the warrant and responds only to the specifics outlined in it.
• Students remain in class and learning continues uninterrupted.
• If enforcement activity occurs nearby, the school may move into a “Secure” status out of caution, which means exterior doors are locked and learning continues as planned.
• District leadership communicates with families as appropriate and in a manner that protects student privacy.

School Resources for Students & Families

Anonymous Safety Reporting:

• District and school websites include a link at the top for anonymous reporting of safety concerns: www.rsd.edu/tip
• If you are aware of a student who is concerned about immigration status or that of a family member, please connect them with a member of their school support team (School Counselor, School Social Worker, School Psychologist, School Nurse, or Principals). These individuals are equipped to provide support and connect students and their families to resources.

Community Resources for Families

Local Organizations

• Bridges to New Beginnings (B5) – located in Kennewick
• Tri-Cities Immigrant Coalition
• World Relief (Legal Services) – located in Richland

Additional Legal Resources

• Washington Law Help
• Northwest Immigrant Rights Project
• Legal Counsel for Youth and Children
• Immigrant Legal Resource Center