The Roaring Fork Schools Board of Education unanimously approved a Safe Haven Policy that safeguards the rights and well-being of immigrant students. This policy, which was heavily prompted by Voces Unidas, a local advocacy group, aims to establish a secure environment on school grounds.

The policy codifies principles from the 2016 Safe Haven Resolution, ensuring schools are “sensitive locations” where federal immigration agents can’t make arrests without a valid judicial warrant. It was created following an incident where border patrol agents were invited to present at Glenwood Springs High School during a career expo in March of 2023, violating a community trust that had been in place since 2011.

Voces Unidas responded shortly after by pressuring district officials to turn the 2016 resolution into policy. The group wanted guarantees that no federal agency involved in immigration enforcement would be invited to campus unless required by a court order. The policy passed on Wednesday night fulfills this requirement and prohibits discrimination based on immigration status.

“Over 390 days have passed since students, parents, and community members demanded the district protect all students,” said Alan Muñoz, regional manager of Voces Unidas. “This policy ensures safety for all students and families.”

Board Vice President Jasmin Ramirez acknowledged the role of Voces Unidas in pushing for the policy.

“I appreciate the accountability. It matters,” Ramirez said. “We’re working toward safety, inclusivity and a welcoming environment for our students and families.”

The Safe Haven Policy also clarifies that the district will not partner with law enforcement for immigration enforcement or disclose student records to non-school officials for immigration purposes. School Resource Officers (SROs) may continue to help with school safety but are prohibited from any involvement with immigration enforcement.

The district is committed to promoting a welcoming environment and has laid out specific guidelines to ensure this. Annual training will be provided to school staff, resource center personnel and partner organizations to maintain compliance. Any arrest made on campus will be handled discreetly to limit its impact.

Voces Unidas said it will continue advocating for improvements in education equity within the district. The group emphasized the need to address the achievement gap between Latino and white students and increase Latino representation in leadership and decision-making roles.

“The work is not over,” said Muñoz. “Thank you for doing what’s right.”

During Wednesday’s meeting, the board also entered an executive session to discuss a Collective Bargaining Contract in partnership with the Roaring Fork Community Education Association. The contract would provide compensation for extra duties, substitute teaching and athletic coaching.

The board is expected to take action on the Collective Bargaining Contract during the May 22 board meeting.