Los Angeles Unified School District implements “safe perimeters” around graduation venues as families worry about federal enforcement presence
LOS ANGELES — As graduation season brings thousands of students and families together in celebration, Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) has announced a sweeping security plan to ensure that immigration enforcement officers do not disrupt ceremonies or intimidate undocumented students and their families.
“Every single graduation site is a protected site,” said Superintendent Alberto Carvalho during a press conference on Monday, June 9. The announcement came amid growing community anxiety over increased immigration activity near schools — an issue that has sparked protests and concern across Los Angeles.
The plan includes deploying school police officers to establish perimeters around more than 100 scheduled graduation events, ensuring undocumented families can enter safely and remain on-site without fear of arrest.
“We will protect every parent, every child, every workforce member,” Carvalho declared. “Our schools are places of education and inspiration, not fear and intimidation.”
Timeline and Safety Measures
The updated security measures follow reports last week that federal vans were seen parked near two LAUSD campuses. Although no arrests were made, Carvalho said the presence alone “instilled fear” and could trigger “self-deportation” behavior in vulnerable families.
In response, LAUSD’s independent police department — which includes over 200 sworn officers — is now tasked with securing:
- School campuses and graduation venues
- Adjacent streets and parking lots
- Bus routes and designated bus stops
- Summer school locations beginning June 17
Families unable to attend in person can watch via live virtual streams, and school principals have been directed to minimize wait times at entry points to reduce exposure outside school grounds.
Community Voices: A Day for Joy, Not Fear
Parents and community members echoed concerns about the emotional toll on students and their families.
“We don’t want our kids to have that type of memory when they graduate,” said Jorge Rosana, whose daughter graduated Friday. “We’ve been through worse times. Keep fighting for their dreams.”
“It lingers in the back of your head,” added Eric Flores, another parent. “But we shouldn’t let that stop us from enjoying the celebration.”
The United Teachers Los Angeles union estimates that roughly 30,000 LAUSD students are immigrants, with one in four being undocumented — many of whom rely on school services like meals, mental health counseling, and safe transportation.
Carvalho emphasized that “every child has a right to a public education,” regardless of immigration status, and noted that the district is in regular contact with Mayor Karen Bass and Governor Gavin Newsom to coordinate support.
Legal and Civic Implications
The decision to create “protected zones” around school events reflects the district’s broader stance against federal immigration enforcement near sensitive spaces, especially in the absence of judicial warrants. Public schools have long been considered “sensitive locations” under prior U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) guidelines — a policy rescinded under the Trump administration.
Although no official federal raid has occurred on LAUSD grounds, civil rights groups warn that the mere visibility of immigration officers near schools violates the spirit of student protections outlined in constitutional law.
“These kinds of intimidation tactics erode trust between families and public institutions,” said Luz Chavez, an advocate with the ACLU of Southern California. “Public schools should be off-limits, especially during rites of passage like graduation.”
Looking Ahead
With summer school programs starting on June 17, LAUSD has committed to expanding locations, increasing transportation options, and continuing online offerings to ensure access and safety.
“No child should have to trade academic achievement for fear,” Carvalho said. “This district stands with our families — and we will continue to fight for their dignity.”
Were you or your family impacted by graduation security measures or immigration activity near LAUSD schools? Share your story in the comments.
