Student Safety and Privacy
Immigration Enforcement and School Safety: Protecting Our Students
Metro Nashville Public Schools prioritizes the safety, privacy, and well-being of all students. Our commitment is to provide a secure, welcoming environment where every child can thrive, regardless of background.
Here’s what families should know:
School Safety
Legal Authorization Required
In the absence of an emergency, any law enforcement activity, including immigration enforcement, requires explicit legal authorization. This applies to accessing student records or speaking with students on school property.
Student Records Are Protected
Federal law under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) safeguards student records. We do not release personal information without a valid court order or subpoena.
Our Commitment
Privacy and Rights
When parents entrust their children to our schools, they also trust us to protect their privacy, constitutional rights, and overall well-being.
Legal Review
If immigration enforcement officials make a request, our legal department will review the matter thoroughly to ensure compliance with the law. Families will be notified, as permitted, in accordance with legal authority.
Our Focus
At MNPS, our focus remains on creating a safe, supportive environment where every student can thrive. We stand by our commitment to safeguard the rights and well-being of all our students and families.
Commitment to Education for All
Metro Nashville Public Schools does not seek or store information regarding the immigration status of the students we serve. Every child in America is guaranteed a free and appropriate education under the law and in keeping with the Constitution of the United States. Plyler v. Doe remains the law of the land, ensuring that all students, regardless of immigration status, have the right to a public education.
In Tennessee, children between the ages of six and seventeen are required to be enrolled in a K-12 institution or receive educational services in another form until they graduate or reach adulthood. As a public school district, MNPS will continue to fulfill its responsibility to educate all students, without exception.
We take pride in the diverse backgrounds of our student population and remain committed to providing a high-quality education to every child who walks through our doors. Ensuring access to education strengthens our community and contributes to a more prosperous future for all.