STEP Academy is committed to the physical safety and emotional well-being of all students and is committed to ensuring that our schools are welcoming and safe places for students and their families. We will make sure that every student, regardless of their or their family’s immigration status, has full access to the educational opportunities and support service available within our schools. We will continue to uphold and protect every student’s right to a high-quality education, including access to rigorous coursework and essential support services.
STEP’s board has adopted policies ensuring the provision of equal educational opportunities to all enrolled students, regardless of their immigration status, national origin, or language; and we will oppose any disruptions to the educational environment that ICE actions may create.
STEP Academy will not disclose to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers any information about a student’s or family’s immigration status unless we are compelled to do so by a valid court order.
STEP requires any ICE personnel wishing to enter our buildings to notify the executive director in advance of such entry and to provide proper written authority to enter such property. STEP has provided training, and will provide additional resources if needed, for its existing crisis and emergency response teams in order to help ensure the safety and well-being of our students who may be impacted by immigration enforcement actions.
Many students and families have shared concerns about their safety. Below are some resources and steps to help students and families have plans in place. Please note the school district and school staff cannot provide legal advice or assistance.
Please click here to read our letter to the community.
Local Resources
The following organizations provide free and low-cost services for families. Please reach out to them directly for assistance.
- City of Saint Paul Immigration Resources
Phone: 651-266-8989 / Website: stpaul.gov/immigration-resources - Mid-Minnesota Legal Aid
Watch a webinar in English and Spanish: stpaul.gov/news/know-your-rights-mid-minnesota-legal-aid - Southern Minnesota Regional Legal Services
Phone: 877-696-6529 / Website: smrls.org - Immigrant Law Center of Minnesota
Phone: 651-641-1011 / Website: ilcm.org - City of Minneapolis – Immigrant and Refugee Affairs
- Law Help MN – lawhelpmn.org
School staff are here to support you while you are at school. If you have any questions or need further assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out to your school principal or another trusted school staff member.
Policies and Procedures
Here is a link to our site Emergency Preparedness Plans