Lansdowne, PA – May 1, 2026
Please see the following message sent to WPSD staff and families on May 1, 2026. Thank you.
Dear WPSD Community,
We are writing to share an update following new guidance issued by the Pennsylvania Department of Education regarding immigration enforcement activities nationwide.
As a reminder, the William Penn School District remains firmly committed to providing a safe, welcoming, and supportive environment for every student, regardless of immigration status. The information shared in our previous communications on February 13, 2025 and January 28, 2026, including our Board-approved Safe Zone resolution and guidance from our solicitor, remains in place and continues to guide our practices.
The updated guidance from the state reflects changes at the federal level, including that immigration enforcement activities are no longer restricted from occurring near schools. While this may raise understandable concern, it is important to reaffirm:
- Every child has the right to a free public education, regardless of immigration status.
- Schools do not ask for or require information about a student’s or family’s immigration status.
- Student information continues to be protected under federal privacy laws, including the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).
In the William Penn School District, our procedures remain unchanged:
- Immigration enforcement activities will not be permitted to disrupt the learning environment.
- Any requests from immigration enforcement agencies are directed to the Superintendent’s Office.
- The District does not collect or share information about a student’s immigration status.
- Student privacy remains a top priority.
- The District continues to reinforce procedures across all school-related settings, including arrival and dismissal, extracurricular activities, and school-sponsored trips, to ensure staff are prepared to respond appropriately in any situation.
Please know that our schools remain places of learning, support, and belonging for all students. We will continue to share information as needed and remain committed to the well-being of every child we serve.
Sincerely,
Dr. Eric J. Becoats
