New York City Schools Chancellor Melissa Aviles-Ramos is trying to reassure the city’s immigrant student population that it’s safe to come to school ahead of the start of the new school year next Thursday.

It comes as an increasing number of immigrant detentions have caused some immigrant students to avoid school for fear of being detained by ICE agents at or in transit to and from school.

"New York City public school stands with all of our families, regardless of background and immigration status,” Aviles-Ramos said at a press conference Wednesday. “Let me assure you: our schools are safe places. They are welcoming places, where your child will be cared for and valued."

Aviles-Ramos stood with immigration and education advocates outside of the city's Department of Education headquarter

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