Tucson Police and Schools Navigate New Path as Trump Drops Controversial ‘Sensitive’ Locations Policy

In Tucson, schools, the Catholic Diocese, and local officials have stepped up efforts to reassure residents amid heightened immigration enforcement measures under the new Trump administration. President Donald Trump recently signed several executive actions aimed at tightening immigration policies, including revoking key protections for sensitive locations like schools and hospitals.

Supt. Gabriel Trujillo of the Tucson Unified School District addressed community concerns in a letter, affirming the district’s commitment to providing a safe environment for all students, irrespective of their immigration status. He emphasized that TUSD will not inquire about the immigration status of students and families, reiterating their right to education despite federal policy changes. “We understand that changes in immigration enforcement policy may occur, but those should not affect our students’ right to public education,” Trujillo stated.

Trujillo also highlighted that any law enforcement officials seeking entry into schools must present appropriate identification and legal requisites. “Without this required information, we are within district policy to deny these officials access,” he added. This protocol aims to preserve student safety in a landscape of evolving immigration enforcement.

Concerns among parents and residents have surged as community members fear the implications of new federal directives. Robert Ross, TUSD’s general counsel, expressed worries over the potential chilling effect this could have on students’ access to education, referencing the Supreme Court’s decision in Plyler v. Doe, which protects the right of unauthorized immigrant children to attend public schools.

City leaders, including Tucson Mayor Regina Romero, clarified that TPD does not engage in immigration enforcement activities, positioning those responsibilities solely with federal agencies. They emphasized that local law enforcement officers will not inquire about immigration status during interactions with residents, further aiming to alleviate fear within the community.

Tucson city officials reminded residents that, in accordance with existing policies, juveniles suspected of minor criminal activity will not be questioned about their immigration status without a guardian present. “It’s crucial that community members remain informed of their rights in this changing climate,” they stated.

The Catholic Diocese of Tucson, under Bishop Edward J. Weisenburger’s guidance, has also taken steps to support vulnerable groups, offering resources and emphasizing the humane treatment of migrants. “We believe all individuals, regardless of their immigration status, deserve compassion,” Weisenburger remarked.

As the local authorities navigate these complex issues, the focus remains on ensuring that all children in the community have access to education and are treated with dignity and respect.