SW New Mexico News

The Las Cruces Public Schools (LCPS) Superintendent, Ignacio Ruiz, addressed families in a letter regarding recent changes in federal immigration enforcement policies. The adjustments stem from an Executive Order affecting U.S. Department of Homeland Security policies and have raised concerns within the community.

Ruiz emphasized that all children, regardless of immigration status, are welcome in LCPS schools. He cited the 1982 U.S. Supreme Court decision, Plyler v. Doe, which affirms that undocumented children have the same rights to attend public primary and secondary schools as other students.

"We are monitoring these shifts and are seeking legal guidance on how they could impact our schools and our existing district policies," Ruiz stated. The district is also reviewing guidance from the New Mexico Attorney General titled "Ensuring a Safe and Secure Learning Environment for All: Guidance to Assist New Mexico's K-12 Schools in Response to Immigration Issues."

Ruiz assured parents that LCPS does not collect data on the immigration status of students or their families and thus cannot provide such information to law enforcement agencies. "Las Cruces Public Schools is not responsible for enforcing federal immigration law," he wrote. "We will not initiate contact with federal immigration authorities to share student information."

He urged parents and caregivers to keep their contact information current to receive updates from the school district. Counselors are available at all schools to support students who may feel stressed or fearful due to policy changes.

"Our students' safety is extremely important to every employee of our school system," Ruiz concluded, inviting any questions be directed to his office.

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