In response to escalating immigration enforcement activities near educational institutions, the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) has implemented comprehensive measures to safeguard undocumented students and their families during graduation ceremonies. Superintendent Alberto Carvalho announced that all graduation venues will be designated as protected zones, with district police establishing safety perimeters to ensure the safety and dignity of these milestone events.
“Every single graduation site is a protected site,” stated Superintendent Carvalho during a press conference on Monday. He emphasized the district’s commitment to intervening if any agency attempts to disrupt these celebrations. Over 100 graduation ceremonies are scheduled across the district, and principals have been instructed to facilitate quick entry for families to minimize potential risks.
The decision follows reports of federal vans near school campuses, which Carvalho described as acts of intimidation. He expressed concern over the presence of immigration enforcement near schools, stating that such actions instill fear and may lead to self-deportation, which is contrary to the values of the community and the nation.
To accommodate families who may feel unsafe attending in person, LAUSD is offering virtual viewing options for graduation ceremonies. Additionally, the district is monitoring school buses and bus stops to ensure the safety of students and their families. These measures aim to ensure that graduations remain joyous milestones free from fear and anxiety.
Superintendent Carvalho reaffirmed the district’s commitment to providing a safe and supportive environment for all students, regardless of immigration status. He highlighted that nearly 30,000 of LAUSD’s over 520,000 students are immigrants, with about a quarter being undocumented. “Every student in our community, every student across the country has a constitutional right to a free public education of high quality, without threat,” Carvalho stated.
The district’s actions are in line with its longstanding sanctuary policies. In November 2024, the LAUSD Board reaffirmed its status as a sanctuary district and safe zone for families threatened by immigration enforcement. The district has also distributed “Know Your Rights” cards to students and families, providing guidance on how to respond if approached by immigration officials.
The Los Angeles School Police Department (LASPD) has reiterated its stance of not assisting or engaging in immigration compliance checks or enforcement activities. Interim Chief Aaron Pisarzewicz emphasized that the department’s primary focus is to ensure every student has the right to attend school in a safe and welcoming environment.
These protective measures come amid broader concerns about immigration enforcement in sensitive locations. Recent incidents, including attempts by federal agents to enter LAUSD elementary schools without proper documentation, have heightened fears among immigrant communities. Superintendent Carvalho condemned these actions, stating that schools are places of education and inspiration .
The district’s proactive approach reflects its commitment to upholding the rights and well-being of all students. By designating graduation venues as protected zones and offering virtual options, LAUSD aims to ensure that all students and their families can celebrate their achievements without fear.