Henrico schools outline new rules for ICE agents

Driving the news: The proposed policy, unveiled Thursday, would require employees to do the following if agents show up:

• Request ID and copies of warrants, then refer them to district officials and legal counsel before granting access to restricted areas, students or their information, subject to legal exceptions.
• Document encounters and notify the school safety director as soon as possible.

Zoom in: It would also put existing protections in writing that:

• Bar schools from denying enrollment or participation in activities based on a student's or parent's immigration status.
• Prohibit employees from collecting or disclosing immigration information except as permitted or required by law.

Between the lines: Richmond was the first locality in the region in February 2025 to formally adopt an ICE response policy, which looks similar to the policies Henrico is outlining.

What's next: The school board is expected to vote Dec. 10, with staff training planned before winter break starts Dec. 21.

What we're watching: School board member Alicia Atkins questioned whether immigration enforcement fears have affected student attendance, but district officials didn't provide figures or say whether they're tracking the issue.