LA PUENTE, CA – Bassett Unified School District is committed to protecting the rights of all students to attend school regardless of immigration status, religious beliefs, nationality, gender and sexual orientation by declaring all campuses as safe, sanctuary schools.

Bassett Unified’s Board of Education unanimously adopted a District policy that pledges to shield identifying information about students, families and employees.

“One of my top priorities is to ensure that our students are receiving a high-quality education in a safe and secure environment,” Board of Education Member Paul Solano said. “I am proud to be a part of a school district that safeguards the rights of our students to practice their beliefs and be who they are without facing discrimination from our Bassett community.”

Bassett Unified’s Board of Education decided to declare all District schools as sanctuaries after hearing increased reports nationwide on students receiving deportation threats from their peers and teachers and Muslim students being assaulted. The concerns grew out of rhetoric during the recent presidential election targeting immigrants and Muslims.

“We are fortunate to have a strong, supportive community where our students and families are free to practice their beliefs without fear of discrimination,” Solano said. “With this policy in place at Bassett Unified, our students will know that they will always be welcomed here.”

Bassett Unified will increase partnerships with local organizations to provide an array of resources for families and students who face harassment due to religious beliefs or race, and will provide referrals to community groups and legal organizations if families face deportation.

Teachers, staff and administrators will be trained to implement the policy, which includes not inquiring about a student’s residency status, religious background or sexual orientation.

“Bassett Unified celebrates the diversity of our community and the rich language and culture our students and families bring to our campuses,” Superintendent Alex J. Rojas said. “This will only strengthen our community, who are all working toward the common goal of student success.”