10/29/2026
Dear Lompoc Unified families,
We know that recent events in our region have caused fear, worry, and uncertainty for many of our students and families. We want to be clear: Lompoc Unified is committed to maintaining safe, welcoming, and protected learning environments for all students, regardless of immigration status.
Our schools do not collect information about students' or families' immigration status, and our staff will follow California law and district procedures to protect students' educational and privacy rights, including procedures for any request by outside agencies to access our campuses or student information. All LUSD students have the right to a free public education regardless of immigration status or other protected classes.
We recognize that many students may be carrying stress or worry right now, and we want every family to know where to turn. Our counselors, wellness coaches, school social workers, and other staff are available to support any student who needs someone to talk to. Please reach out to your school site if your child would benefit from that support. Resources and supports for families are available on our district website at https://www.lusd.org/everyfamilybelongs.
Some students have stated their interest in expressing their concerns, and we understand that a peaceful student-organized walkout is planned for Friday, October 30. The demonstration is scheduled to begin at 11:50 AM on the front lawn of Lompoc High School along College Avenue, followed by a march, with students expected to return to campus by 12:48 PM. Students from other schools may also choose to participate. As always, our top priority is the safety and well-being of every student.
We respect students' legal rights to express their views. Under California Education Code 48907 and Board Policy 5145.2, students have the right to engage in free expression, provided it does not substantially disrupt school operations. Instruction will continue as scheduled at all school sites.
Attendance: Under California Education Code 48205, middle and high school students may receive one excused absence per school year to participate in a civic or political event, provided the school is notified ahead of the absence. If your student plans to participate during class time, please notify your school's attendance office by the end of day Thursday, October 29. Students who do not attend class without advance notification will be marked absent in accordance with district procedures. Students with an excused absence will have the opportunity to make up missed work.
If students leave campus during class time, please be aware of the following:
Staff will encourage students to attend class, but will not physically prevent students from leaving campus unless there is an immediate safety concern.
Staff will follow established procedures to support student safety and document attendance, including monitoring as students exit campus to the extent practicable.
Once students leave campus, the district is not able to supervise them.
We strongly encourage families to talk with their students before Friday about your family's expectations for participation, attendance, and safety. If your student plans to participate, consider making a plan together: staying with trusted friends, keeping a charged phone, knowing how to reach a family member or emergency contact, and returning to campus promptly when the march ends. This is also a good time to make sure your emergency contact information is current with your school site.
Thank you for your partnership in supporting our students' safety, learning, and well-being. If you have questions, please contact your school administration.
Sincerely,
Lompoc Unified School District
