January 28, 2026 - AAPS Superintendent Message
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Dear Ann Arbor Public Schools Community:
The safety and well-being of students and staff are our top priority in the Ann Arbor Public Schools. We are committed to providing a safe and secure environment where every student can learn and thrive without fear. In light of recent reports of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activity in the area, we recognize that many members of our Ann Arbor Public Schools community are experiencing heightened concern and fear.
What occurred in the Ypsilanti Community School District yesterday - where ICE agents targeted parents at a bus stop and took some parents into custody- is deeply troubling, concerning and undermines the sense of safety that all families deserve.
Every child has a right to a free public education, regardless of immigration status. In the AAPS, we take our responsibility to uphold and protect these student rights seriously. The Ann Arbor Public Schools has established clear response protocols regarding ICE presence on our campuses and near our AAPS buses. It remains our protocol to not allow ICE agents in our schools or on our property without a signed judicial warrant. The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) safeguards student information, meaning that schools cannot share protected records with immigration or law enforcement agencies without parental consent or a signed judicial order. Our commitment to protecting the rights and privacy of our students remains steadfast.
Durham Transportation also has protocols for responding if ICE agents are suspected of being near bus stops. As an additional precaution, we have taken down the AAPS bus routes from the district website.
All AAPS schools have been provided information and “Know Your Rights” materials to support and share with our immigrant families as needed. Additionally, we collaborate with several community agencies that provide services, resources, and support. We encourage families to review these resources and understand the protections and resources available to them.
As we continue to navigate these challenging times, our commitment remains clear: we will protect the dignity, privacy, and belonging of students, families, and staff members in the Ann Arbor Public Schools.
Sincerely,
Jazz Parks
Superintendent
Ann Arbor Public Schools