The statement, sent by email to the PUSD community on Jan. 29, comes as the district prepares for a planned “National Shutdown” on Friday and a potential student walkout scheduled for Feb. 6. Blanco said all district schools will remain open on both days.
“Recent local and national news regarding immigration operations has understandably brought worry, fear, and uncertainty to some of our students, families, and employees,” Blanco wrote. “Please know that we see you, we hear you, and your well-being matters deeply to us.”
In the statement, Blanco outlined several district policies aligned with Board Policy and state guidance: PUSD does not collect or share information about the immigration status of students or their families, and immigration enforcement agents are not permitted on school campuses without a lawfully executed court order.
“Our schools are non-public spaces, and we continue to work closely with legal counsel to ensure our protocols are clear, lawful, and consistently followed,” Blanco wrote.
The superintendent said the district has implemented employee training and clear campus procedures, and provided flexible learning options, transportation and food access supports, and trusted outreach by school and district employees for students and families who may be feeling vulnerable.
Blanco said PUSD is working with the Cities of Pasadena and Sierra Madre, Los Angeles County, legal experts, and community partners to ensure campuses remain safe, welcoming, and inclusive spaces for all. The district has created a webpage with multilingual resources and trusted, up-to-date information for families navigating immigration-related concerns at pusd.us/immigrationresources.
“PUSD is proud to serve a richly diverse community, and that diversity is a strength we will always honor and protect,” Blanco wrote.
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