The Relentless School Nurse: Standing Together – Protecting Our Students in Uncertain Times

I was struggling this morning friends, feeling so depleted and concerned about what is about to happen today, January 20, 2025, as the new administration takes hold with unparalleled power. The painful irony of this Inauguration Day coinciding with MLK Day 2025 serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing struggle for racial and social justice. 

The landscape of education and community support is changing rapidly, and my school district, along with many others, finds itself at a critical intersection of policy, protection, and principle. As we face unprecedented challenges, especially to immigrant families’ safety and dignity, our collective response becomes more important than ever.

This moment demands more than passive sympathy—it requires an active, intentional commitment to protecting the most vulnerable members of our school community. The policies being considered at the federal level threaten to disrupt the fundamental sense of security that every child deserves, regardless of their immigration status.

My district’s response is clear: We will not allow fear to penetrate our school walls. We will not permit policies that marginalize or threaten our students. Instead, we choose to create a sanctuary of learning, growth, and opportunity.

This is not just about resistance—it’s about affirmation. It’s about declaring unequivocally that every student belongs. That every family matters. That our community’s strength lies in its diversity, compassion, and unwavering commitment to protecting each other.

The following letter represents more than an official statement. It is a promise. A commitment. A line drawn in the sand to protect the fundamental rights and human dignity of every student we serve. I have never been prouder in my 24 years of service than I am on this difficult morning.

Dear Camden City School District Community,

As a district, we are deeply committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment for all students and families, particularly during times when their safety and dignity are threatened. Recent discussions about potential federal policies targeting immigrant families are deeply troubling and stand in direct opposition to the values of equity, justice, and humanity that define both our district and the Camden community.

In 2020, the Camden City School District reaffirmed this commitment through Resolution #165 SY 19-20, which declared our dedication to creating a safe and supportive learning environment for all students, regardless of immigration status. Today, we stand firmly by that resolution, ensuring that our schools continue to be sanctuaries where every child can learn, grow, and thrive without fear.

We unequivocally reject any policies or actions that threaten the well-being of our students and families. Our district will not cooperate with immigration enforcement actions that compromise the safety or stability of our school community. Furthermore, we are committed to protecting the privacy and security of our students and their families, ensuring that no information will be shared with immigration authorities.

In anticipation of any potential changes at the federal level, we are taking proactive steps to review and strengthen policies that uphold our promise to being a safe and welcoming district for all. This work will ensure that our schools remain sanctuaries of hope, opportunity, and security for every family we serve.

To our immigrant families and all those who may feel targeted or marginalized: we see you, we value you, and we stand with you. Your children belong here. Camden’s diversity is its greatest strength, and we will continue to celebrate and protect it. Together, we will work to ensure every student feels supported, valued, and empowered to achieve their dreams.

We invite our community partners, local organizations, and all who share our values to stand with us in defending the rights and dignity of every family. By working together, we can ensure Camden City School District remains a beacon of equity and inclusion.

Thank you for your continued support and commitment to our shared mission of putting students first.

 Students First,  

Katrina T. McCombs, M.A.Ed., MPA
State District Superintendent
Camden City School District