COLUMBUS, Ind. – In support of its students, the Bartholomew Consolidated School Corporation (BCSC) released the following statement to parents, families, students, and the community on Monday afternoon:
“In Bartholomew Consolidated School Corporation (BCSC), we remain steadfast in our mission to provide a welcoming culture built on respect and trust for all. In recent weeks, immigration policy at the federal level has inspired reactions and emotions within our community and across the nation. It is important to understand that, by law, a child’s immigration status (or that of their parents) does not affect their right to receive a public education. We remain committed to the core beliefs of celebrating diversity, building strong community partnerships, and cultivating civic-minded citizens.
To our parents and families, BCSC will continue to educate all of our students in a welcoming, safe environment. We do not collect or maintain any information about the immigration status of students or families. Policy 5540 acknowledges BCSC’s responsibility to cooperate with law enforcement agencies but discourages legal interviews or interrogations on school property whenever possible. BCSC officials will request that the law enforcement agency contact the parent/guardian to interview the student at a time and location away from school. We will make every attempt to contact a parent or guardian if an immigration official requests to meet with your student at school.
To our students, we will remain focused on your education and meeting your physical, social, and psychological needs while at school. We will be diligent in communicating and reinforcing expectations for students to treat others with respect and dignity as members of our school community. We encourage students and families to report any concerns directly to a teacher or school administrator so they can be addressed promptly.
To our community, we will continue to partner with other organizations and agencies to offer resources and support to families as needed. Now more than ever, it is vital that we lead by example—treating one another with civility, listening with empathy, and modeling the respect and understanding we wish to instill in our students.”