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School district ponders refugee policy

School District 57 is considering a sanctuary school policy for refugee students.
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School District 57 is considering a sanctuary school policy for refugee students.

At a meeting on Tuesday, school board trustees agreed that more research needs to be done regarding the issue which will be reported back to the school board at a later date.

Vice-chair Trish Bella presented the recommendation.

"This is so important for us. We are welcoming refugees into the community and this is a proactive, positive stance," said Bella.

"This also tells the families that your kids are safe and they deserve the opportunity for quality public education. You are welcome."

Many schools in British Columbia have already implemented a sanctuary school policy. Schools in New Westminister for example, have a policy in place that aims to give school-aged children access to education without fear, which in turn relieves their families of the threat of their personal information being shared with immigration authorities, whatever their immigration status may be.

According to the policy, the families targeted may include anyone with less than full immigration status including temporary workers, undocumented entrants and refugee applicants.

While the B.C. School Act permits all school-age residents to attend a school in their district, there are refugee families who are uncomfortable and keep their children at home for fear of being deported or even losing their children.