APS Guidance for Supporting and Protecting Our Students
APS is committed to ensuring that every student learns in a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment, and we remain steadfast in protecting the rights and well-being of all children in our care.
APS works in close collaboration with the Andover Police Department on all matters related to student safety and has maintained ongoing communication regarding federal immigration policies that might affect our students, communities, and classrooms. The partnership between APS and APD is critical to ensuring our students’ welfare and well-being.
Beginning in January 2025, district administration and school principals have engaged in continued discussions to review safety guidance and clarify rights and responsibilities under the law, should the need arise.
In Massachusetts, districts benefit from clear guidance from the Commonwealth’s Attorney General and the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE). APS will follow this guidance if needed. The AG’s office and DESE have released important information outlining our obligations to protect students and their information. This information is also available to families who have concerns.
APS has developed a consistent approach across the district in which the Superintendent or designee will address any such inquiries or requests for student information. If ICE were to appear at an Andover school, central office administration would immediately mobilize and lead the response in accordance with DESE guidance.
We remain vigilant and proactive in ensuring the safety of all APS students.