In District 300, the safety, well-being, and dignity of every student remain our absolute priorities. We are a community built on the strength of our collective diversity, and we want every student, family, and staff member to know: you belong here.

Our educational mission is rooted in the values of mutual respect. We teach our students, and expect our staff to welcome and embrace one another as vital members of our district. Hate and intolerance have no place in D300. We believe that true leadership is defined by how we care for and support our neighbors, especially during times of uncertainty.

We recognize that many families are navigating a season of fear and uncertainty. District 300 remains a steadfast supporter of all our families. Potential changes in federal immigration enforcement do not diminish District 300’s legal obligation to protect the rights and privacy of our students and families. We will continue to follow all established district policies, as well as state and federal laws, to ensure our schools remain safe spaces for learning. We encourage families to utilize district resources to help navigate these challenges.

Please join us in fostering an environment of kindness and mutual respect.

Superintendent 
Dr. Martina Smith

Information

What Is Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)?

ICE refers to Immigration and Customs Enforcement. It is the primary law enforcement agency within the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

Student Support and School Safety

• District 300 remains dedicated to providing a safe and supportive learning environment for all students. We will continue to uphold policies and procedures that ensure our schools are places where all children are respected and empowered to learn and succeed.
   

• To help ensure student safety, we encourage all families to review and update their emergency contact information in PowerSchool so the district can reach the appropriate individual in case of an emergency. Families needing assistance updating emergency contact information should contact their child’s school and ask to speak with the registrar.
   

• Any student in need of support, for any reason, is encouraged to reach out to a school counselor, a social worker, or an administrator. These staff members are available to listen, provide emotional support, and ensure every student feels valued and supported.
   

• When activity in our community has the potential to impact school safety, daily operations, or the well-being of students and staff, District 300 follows established safety procedures to maintain a secure and supportive learning environment. Depending on the situation, different safety protocols may be implemented to ensure an appropriate response, especially when circumstances have the potential to change quickly.

Student Rights and Legal Protections

• All children in the United States are entitled to equal access to a basic public elementary and secondary education, regardless of their actual or perceived immigration status, or the status of their parents/guardians -- a standard upheld by the U.S. Supreme Court in Plyler v. Doe, even in instances when a student may be undocumented. (See also ISBE Guidance)
   

• All District 300 students have the right to “equal educational and extracurricular opportunities,” without regard to their immigration status. (Board Policy 7:10 Equal Educational Opportunities)
   

• Student information and data, including immigration status, is protected under the Federal Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and the Illinois School Student Records Act (ISSRA).