How CGS is preparing to protect its community
By Brittney Haldorsen ‘25
Courtesy of DHS
As of Feb. 2025, schools across the United States (U.S.) are grappling with the consequences of the Trump administration's renewed focus on immigration enforcement, which includes significantly expanding the reach of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on school grounds. This policy shift has left many immigrant families anxious about the possibility of ICE raids disrupting the school environment.
Schools, particularly those in areas like Oregon, are urgently preparing to respond to these challenges and ensure the safety and well-being of their students. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security recently reversed its previous policy of keeping ICE agents from arresting individuals on school grounds. With this policy change, schools are now seen as potentially vulnerable sites for immigration enforcement, leading to increased concerns for students and families who fear being caught in raids.
As ICE expands its operations, there is heightened uncertainty about how schools will handle these encounters and what impact they will have on students' sense of safety and security. In Oregon, where cities like Beaverton are already preparing for the possibility of ICE presence, Catlin Gabel School (CGS) has been proactive in developing a comprehensive action plan. CGS Head of School Tim Bazemore has been at the forefront of these efforts, working to ensure that both students and staff are informed about their rights and how to handle encounters with immigration enforcement.
“We have an obligation [to do] everything we can to keep students safe and employees,” said Bazemore. “I mean that both physically but also emotionally here too so we want to make sure students and employees understand the institution's opportunity and obligation to support.” In a series of communications with faculty, Bazemore outlined the school’s response protocol.
In the event of an ICE visit to campus, employees are instructed to direct the agents to Toad Hall, where school leadership will verify their identity and request written legal authorization for their visit. Only after consulting with legal counsel will the school proceed with any further action.
“We do not collect, so we cannot provide student citizenship or immigration status information. We would not provide employee citizenship information to federal officials unless compelled to do so by a warrant or subpoena,” explained Bazemore.
Bazemore has made it clear to faculty that if immigration officers come onto campus, they should direct them to school leadership, who will ensure all legal protocols are followed. In emails sent to employees, Bazemore emphasized the importance of understanding the rights of individuals during these encounters, stressing that employees have the right to remain silent and can request legal representation. These guidelines ensure that the school remains compliant with the law while also upholding its duty to protect the privacy and safety of its community members.
In addition to these directives, Bazemore has shared a valuable resource with faculty: the Oregon Department of Justice’s community toolkit. This guide, which is part of the state's broader effort to inform residents about their rights during immigration enforcement, has been made available to all CGS staff members. Beyond legal preparedness, the school is also committed to educating its community on broader immigration issues.
Bazemore believes it is critical that students understand the historical context of immigration and migration in the United States. “Part of our mission is to educate global citizens here at Catlin,” said Bazemore. “And I think we feel a keen obligation to bring together kids, families, employees from all over the world, all sorts of identities and backgrounds…”.
Through curriculum and discussions, CGS is helping students engage with the complexities of immigration, including exploring the diverse political perspectives on the issue.
The school is also working to reassure families who may feel fearful or uncertain. His message was clear:“we care about you…. [and] each and every one of you brings something valuable and important to this community and it makes us better.”
"We will do everything in our power on a day-to-day basis and on a legal basis to care for you and support you,” said Bazemore.
The broader Portland community response is similarly focused on offering emotional and practical support to immigrant families who may be particularly vulnerable. Teachers are distributing "Know Your Rights" materials to students and their families, ensuring that everyone is informed about their legal protections in the event of an ICE encounter.
As ICE enforcement becomes a more prominent issue for schools nationwide, including those in Oregon, CGS is setting an example for how to navigate these challenges while upholding core values of safety, inclusion, and compassion. With a clear action plan, educational initiatives, and a commitment to protecting its students and families, CGS seems to be doing everything it can to ensure that every student feels safe, supported, and valued, no matter their immigration status.