March 31, 2026
For Immediate Release
CONTACT:
Office of Communications
301-952-6001
communications@pgcps.org
UPPER MARLBORO, MD – The Prince George’s County Board of Education has approved a new policy establishing clear protocols for school staff when interacting with immigration enforcement agents, reinforcing the district’s commitment to student and community safety.
Adopted March 26, the policy outlines how administrators and staff should respond if immigration enforcement agents are present on school property, with an emphasis on safeguarding students’ rights, minimizing disruption and maintaining secure learning environments.
Prince George’s County Public Schools (PGCPS) serves a diverse student population and is committed to fostering inclusive, welcoming schools that prioritize student well-being and safety.
District leaders say the policy is designed to ensure schools remain safe, supportive spaces where all students can learn without fear, while providing staff with consistent, legally grounded guidance for handling these situations.
“This policy underscores the district’s dedication to equity, student protection, and compliance with federal and state laws, while providing guidance on safeguarding student information and outlining procedures for school personnel when interacting with immigration authorities,” said Board Member Aimee Olivo, whose work as Vice Chair of the Board’s Policy and Governance Committee was instrumental in the crafting of this policy.
Several representatives from We Are CASA, the immigrant advocacy organization, attended a news conference on Thursday evening in support of the measure.
"The new school policy reflects the protective measures urgently needed to ensure that all students, regardless of race, ethnicity or circumstance, feel truly welcome and valued in our school communities. When students feel safe, attendance improves and families are more engaged. PGCPS has demonstrated a clear commitment to our Maryland values and stands as an example to all school systems seeking to establish protective policies that are truly responsive to the authentic needs of their most impacted students during this time of deep fear and anxiety." said Shannon Wilk, Director of Education at We Are CASA.
The policy also establishes boundaries to keep school property – classrooms, buses and instructional spaces — private and secure from unauthorized interference.
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