Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools reported an unusually high absence rate Monday, with nearly 21,000 students missing class as the US Border Patrol continued it’s unprecedented and seemingly unconstitutional raids on Charlotte’s Latin communities, which head of the US Border Patrol dubbed “Operation Charlotte’s Web“.
CMS District officials confirmed that 20,935 students were absent on Nov. 17, representing 15% of total enrollment across CMS’ 185 schools.
CMS sent a districtwide message yesterday, noting that no border patrol agents have yet been seen on school property and said they had not received any notification that agents planned to visit any schools.
“Schools will operate on a normal, in-person schedule tomorrow,” the message read.
The district reassured families that students’ rights are protected, citing the U.S. Supreme Court ruling guaranteeing public education to all children regardless of immigration status. CMS reiterated its policies:
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CMS does not ask about immigration or citizenship status during enrollment.
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The district does not share student information unless required by law.
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Immigration officials cannot enter private school areas without a valid warrant or subpoena.
CMS encouraged families to contact school principals or student services staff with concerns.
Officials reminded parents that students may make up missed assignments for any excused or unexcused absence, per CMS policy.
