LAUSD Enhances Security for Undocumented Students During Graduation

LAUSD implements security measures during graduation to support undocumented students.

News Summary

The Los Angeles Unified School District is implementing new security measures to protect undocumented students during graduation ceremonies and summer sessions. Superintendent Alberto M. Carvalho has mandated police presence at all schools and events to ensure a safe environment amid rising immigration raids. With a diverse student population where many families are undocumented, these proactive measures aim to alleviate community fears and encourage educational participation despite federal enforcement actions.

Los Angeles – The Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) is implementing new security measures to safeguard undocumented students during graduation ceremonies and summer sessions in response to increasing federal immigration raids. Superintendent Alberto M. Carvalho has mandated the presence of district police officers at all schools and events to create a secure environment for students and families.

In a strategic move, Carvalho has instructed the police force to enhance their security protocols around graduation sites, ensuring a protective barrier against any federal immigration interventions. The district’s commitment to providing a safe atmosphere during these celebrations underscores the significance of educational milestones for students, particularly those from immigrant families.

LAUSD is characterized by its diverse student population, with approximately 73.14% of students identifying as Hispanic. Many families within the district are believed to be undocumented, as city estimates suggest about 10% of Los Angeles residents fall into this category. This demographic reality has amplified concerns surrounding immigration enforcement, prompting the district to respond proactively to community fears.

Superintendent Carvalho, who himself was once an undocumented minor, highlighted the importance of defending students’ rights and their educational paths. His personal experience with immigration challenges informs his leadership approach, as he aims to protect vulnerable populations within the school system. Since assuming leadership in 2022, Carvalho has worked to navigate substantial budgetary hurdles and declining student enrollment, all while emphasizing student welfare during this critical time.

LAUSD currently faces significant financial challenges, with a per-student spending rate of approximately $45,703, marking a 229% increase since the previous decade. This budget growth has not translated into improved academic outcomes; recent data revealed that 57% of students failed to meet state reading standards, 67% did not achieve math standards, and 76% fell short in science. Furthermore, the district anticipates a looming deficit of $1.3 billion by the fiscal year 2028, largely due to rising operational costs and dwindling enrollment figures.

In response to the increased security concerns and to support immigrant families, LAUSD has expanded its summer school offerings by nearly 50%, with an estimated 320 schools providing classes that run until July 16. The district has made provisions for transportation to ensure all enrolled students can attend. Approximately 1,000 of 1,600 students at Santee Education Complex have already signed up for these summer classes, contributing toward a projected total of 140,000 students participating across all summer programs.

LAUSD officials, including Board Member Karla Griego, have continually encouraged families to prioritize their children’s education and attend school regardless of the risks associated with federal enforcement actions. The ongoing targeting of immigrant families by federal agents has led to heightened anxiety within the community, making this initiative increasingly critical.

In addition to security measures, LAUSD has established 24/7 hotline services for students and families seeking information or resources related to immigration concerns, underscoring the district’s commitment to supporting its diverse population. The measures taken by LAUSD highlight an ongoing effort to create a more inclusive and secure educational environment for all students during a challenging period marked by uncertainty.

As the graduation season approaches, the district remains vigilant in its efforts to protect the rights and safety of undocumented students amidst an increasingly complex immigration landscape.