A letter from the CPSD Superintendent

Dear Canton Public School District Parents,

We understand that recent news about immigration enforcement across the country has caused concern for many families. While there have been incidents in the community, there have been no immigration-related actions involving Canton Public School District.

Our top priority is always the well-being of our students. We want to assure you that we are committed to supporting all students and families within our legal and ethical responsibilities. Here are some important things to know:

• Legal Compliance & Student Rights: Canton Public School District follows all state and federal laws, which include respecting the rights of our students and families. If presented with a valid legal request, such as a subpoena or warrant, we consult with our legal team to ensure compliance while prioritizing student safety.

• Right to Education – Plyler v. Doe: Under the Plyler v. Doe (1982) Supreme Court ruling, all children, regardless of immigration status, have the right to a free public education. Schools cannot ask about or disclose a student’s immigration status, nor can they deny enrollment based on a child’s or family’s immigration background. Canton Public School District remains committed to upholding this legal right for all students.

• Support for Families: Our schools have clear protocols in place to help students and families. Staff members are available to provide guidance and can connect families with trusted community organizations that offer support, such as the Mississippi Immigrants Rights Alliance (MIRA). MIRA specializes in immigration assistance and can be reached at 601-968-5182. While school staff cannot offer legal advice, they are prepared to help direct families to appropriate resources.

• Emergency Contacts & Student Privacy: We encourage families to keep their emergency contact information up to date to ensure their children’s safety. Additionally, student records are protected under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), meaning personal information cannot be shared without proper consent.
We understand that this may be a stressful time for many in our community. Please know that Canton Public School District remains committed to treating every student and family with compassion, dignity, and respect. We will continue to monitor federal policies and assess their impact on our students.

If you have any concerns or need assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out to your school.

Sincerely,
Gary Hannah
Superintendent
Canton Public School District