At a press conference on February 21st, 2025, Dr. Lisa Roberts, Principal of Grandview, addressed the school’s stance on potential U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activity in Colorado, emphasizing the district’s preparedness, legal backing, and commitment to student safety amid growing concerns.

“Initially people were scared because of what it could look like for our students,” Dr. Roberts said. “I think that there were so many stories out there about what could happen and then what would we do.” 

However, she stressed that Grandview never acts alone, and has an organization behind them in order to ensure the most viable and responsible action for all parties involved. The process has a couple steps involved but it primarily depends on what Grandview’s legal team decides what is appropriate. 

“If somebody were to come with any sort of court documents, then we would have to let an administrator know first. So that’s either me or one of the four assistant principals,” Dr. Roberts said. “Then we fax the information over to our legal office. We call them immediately and we wait to get directions from them.” 

However, this plan has not been executed so far. Neither Grandview’s Dean Anna Bergeron and Dr. Roberts have had any experiences with ICE on campus, and are unaware of what it might even look like.

“I think it’s the best plan we have to work with right now, especially given all the unknowns. And I do feel a lot of security knowing that we have a district legal office that’s staffed by I think four or five people,” Dr. Roberts said. 

Dr. Roberts has not heard of any activity in the district and is not sure if it is a potential target for ICE. 

“I think it depends on different parts of our community. I think it’s affecting some of our communities a lot more than others,” Dr. Roberts said.

Bergeron assures that Grandview is doing its best to protect its students while also balancing certain initiatives. 

“I think we have to continue to be who we are and what we do, but we also have to follow laws. It’s always going to be a balance of what we are being told to do, what we can do, what we believe,” Dr. Roberts said.

However, Dr. Roberts wants to place an emphasis on the district. She appreciates that they have been looking out for the 63 schools in the district and providing guidance. The district also consults  with external districts in the metro area to ensure that each is on the same page. 

“I don’t think that I can speak for all of Grandview, [but] I think many of us, including myself, are concerned for our students,” Bergeron said. “[Just] making sure that we’re respecting students and their families and keeping them as safe as we can. 

Both Grandview and the district have encouraged everyone to know and understand their rights. There are QR codes around the school that students can scan for information and resources, as well as teachers, such as Mrs. Guerrero, that can inform students about their liberties. 

“It’s the unknown. It’s something we haven’t experienced before. So it’s…what do we do? What are our rights? Who will protect us?” Dr. Roberts said. “And all those questions, I don’t know that we all always know the answers too.”