Skip to main content

Fairfield Elementary

Reaffirming Bethel's Commitment to our Immigrant Families

Posted Date: 1/07/25 (8:00 PM)

Dear Bethel Families, Staff, and Students –
 
As we step into to a new year, we want to reaffirm our unwavering commitment to all of our students, families, and staff. In Bethel School District, we believe that every student deserves to feel seen, valued, and supported. This belief is at the heart of our mission to create welcoming communities where all students can thrive.

This is the second of three messages to reaffirm our support for all Bethel students and families. To view the first message, click here.
 
We recognize that recent changes at the federal level may cause uncertainty and concern, particularly for our immigrant families. While we cannot predict every shift in policy, we want to assure you that Bethel’s core values—equity, inclusivity, and respect—remain constant. Our schools are safe spaces where every student is given the opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed.

To support our immigrant families, Bethel schools are committed to protecting student privacy and will prioritize the well-being of our immigrant community members. To this end we will:
  • Strictly adhere to district policies about not sharing personally identifiable student information with federal officials.
  • Provide training/support for immigrant families to best prepare for possible enforcement actions.
  • Provide training for staff members about how to safeguard student information.
  • Continue to provide a forum and community spaces for families to ask questions, build support, and partner with local agencies.
Oregon state laws and Bethel’s board policies ensure that students’ rights to education are upheld, free from fear or discrimination. We remain dedicated to creating an environment where every student feels a strong sense of belonging and is celebrated for their unique contributions to our community.

Bethel’s policies reflect these values and provide clear protections for our students:
  • Policy AC, Nondiscrimination, protects every student from harassment, discrimination, and inequitable treatment based on gender identity or any other factor.
  • Policy ACB, Every Student Belongs, emphasizes that our schools must be safe and inclusive spaces for all, regardless of identity.
  • Policy JOB, Personally Identifiable Information, safeguards students’ private information, ensuring their identities are respected and protected.
Every Bethel family is an integral part of our community, and we are here to support you. Please do not hesitate to reach out directly to me with any questions or concerns. 
 
Sincerely, 
Dr. Kraig Sproles, Bethel School District Superintendent
kraig.sproles@bethel.k12.or.us
541.689.3280
 
Additional immigration-related community resources:
  • Equity Corps of Oregon (ECO): Link — Free legal assistance for immigrant families in Eugene and Oregon. Families can sign up by calling 1-888-274-7292.
  • Immigration Counseling Services (ICS): Link – Offers legal support and resources for immigrant families (Portland office).
  • GLAD of Lane County: Link – Provides advocacy and support services for immigrant and refugee communities.
  • Catholic Community Services of Lane County, Refugee & Immigrant Services Program (RISP): Link – Supports immigrant families with essential resources and assistance.
  • La Plaza/Centro Latino Americano: Link – Serves as a hub for Latino immigrant support, offering services in health, housing, and advocacy