Denver Public Schools (DPS), the largest school district in Colorado, has initiated a federal lawsuit against the Department of Homeland Security and Secretary Kristi Noem. The lawsuit challenges the Trump administration's reversal of a 2011 policy, established during the Obama presidency, that classified schools and other locations like churches as "sensitive locations," thereby limiting immigration enforcement actions in these areas.

DPS contends that the policy change has forced the district to allocate valuable time and resources to educating students and staff on safety protocols related to potential immigration enforcement. The lawsuit alleges that student attendance has dropped noticeably since the policy reversal, fueled by fears of immigration actions on school grounds. This, DPS argues, directly hinders their educational mission.

The lawsuit specifically states that the fear of immigration enforcement on school property is preventing students from attending school. DPS is seeking to have the policy reinstated, prohibiting such actions. Notably, the lawsuit points out that no ICE raids have actually occurred on school grounds to date. However, the district has proactively trained staff on how to respond if ICE agents do appear, instructing them to refuse entry without a judicially authorized warrant.

The lawsuit emphasizes the trust parents place in the public school system, expecting their children to receive an education in a safe and fear-free environment, without concern for immigration enforcement. During the 2023-2024 academic year, DPS had over 90,000 students, including approximately 4,000 immigrants.

The lawsuit also highlights Denver's recent population surge, citing an estimated influx of nearly 43,000 individuals from the southern border, contributing to the heightened anxieties surrounding immigration enforcement.

The Trump administration's decision to rescind the 2011 policy aligns with the President's campaign pledge to increase deportations of individuals residing in the country illegally. Since taking office, ICE has apprehended and deported thousands of people, primarily focusing on those with criminal records in either the U.S. or their countries of origin.