Carroll County School Board Delays Vote on Controversial ICE Policy

The Carroll County Board of Education has postponed a vote on a contentious policy regarding Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents. During a board meeting on March 13, 2024, community members filled every seat, with over 30 people gathering in the lobby to voice their concerns. Following a heated public comment period largely opposing the policy, board members decided to revise the proposal and seek further public input before rescheduling a vote next month.

The original proposal was drafted in response to the new Maryland Values Act, which requires public schools to formulate policies aligned with guidance from the Maryland Attorney General’s office. The board’s policy would limit staff from interfering with ICE agents and permit ICE access to nonpublic areas of schools without a warrant under “exigent circumstances,” such as emergencies involving imminent threats or evidence destruction.

Edmund O’Meally, legal counsel for Carroll County Public Schools, clarified that the policy was designed to comply with Attorney General Anthony Brown‘s guidance. O’Meally noted that concerns centered on two provisions: the restriction on staff interference with ICE and the vague term “exigent circumstances,” which critics argue could allow unwarranted entry into schools.

During the public comment session, speakers expressed strong opposition to the policy, with many calling for clearer protections for students. Natalie Sanchez, representing the Carroll County Immigrant Rights Collective, advocated for specific amendments. She urged the board to explicitly state that schools are nonpublic spaces where ICE cannot enter without a judicial warrant. Sanchez also proposed removing the phrase “exigent circumstances” and recommended that schools go into full lockdown if ICE agents attempt to enter without proper authorization.

Carroll County Sheriff Jim DeWees contributed to the discussion, emphasizing that law enforcement agencies must communicate with his office before approaching schools. DeWees reassured the audience, stating, “I promise you, they will never come to that school and knock on the door and say, ‘Let me in,’ without communicating with my office first.” He expressed skepticism that any situation would justify ICE’s access to a public school.

The decision to revise the policy reflects the school board’s commitment to ensuring a safe environment for all students. Board member Patricia Dorsey underscored the necessity for the revised policy to convey that Carroll County public schools are safe spaces. “If families and children are feeling fearful, we need to do all we can to guard against that, because we’ve always said that our Carroll County public schools are safe schools,” Dorsey remarked.

O’Meally acknowledged that the board was already behind schedule in finalizing the ICE policy but did not anticipate repercussions from further delays. The school board plans to revise and republish the policy for additional public feedback, aiming for a more comprehensive approach that addresses community concerns.

As Carroll County navigates this complex issue, the outcome of the revised policy will likely have significant implications for the community’s approach to immigration enforcement and student safety.