by the El Reportero staff
California’s K-12 school districts are working to ease the fears of parents and students as concerns rise over potential immigration enforcement at schools. The Trump administration’s clear stance on allowing immigration authorities to conduct raids in sensitive places such as schools has added to the anxiety. This change in policy has left many families, particularly those with undocumented members, wondering if their children’s schools are still safe spaces.
According to data, one in ten children in California has at least one undocumented parent. The fear of raids has been especially concerning for those in communities near the U.S.-Mexico border, like Desert Sands Unified School District, about 2 ½ hours north of the border. Laura Fisher, assistant superintendent of student support services, explained that while schools must comply with a judicial subpoena, student safety remains a top priority.
“We’d be asking for the officers’ credentials, contact information, the details of the request,” Fisher said. “And ask to see a copy of any reason for them being on the school grounds, and any documentation that authorizes their school access – before we would allow anything.”
Desert Sands recently sent home a letter to all parents, outlining their district’s protocols to protect student confidentiality should immigration enforcement come onto campus. Fisher also assured parents that the district will minimize disruption and provide mental health counseling if necessary. To date, Fisher reported that the district has not seen a significant drop in school attendance since the new administration took office, but concerns remain.
Luis Valentino, who recently retired as superintendent of Coachella Valley Unified School District, expressed concern about the broader implications of the administration’s policies. He warned that the environment of fear created by potential ICE visits will lead to challenges for schools, particularly regarding teacher retention and the well-being of students and staff. “It is creating an environment of fear that will make it very difficult for school systems to recover from,” he said. “The amount of stress that is being placed on the students and communities, it could be irreparable.”
Reports have surfaced about recent ICE visits to schools, though these actions have sparked mixed responses. Immigration authorities have stated they do not typically target schools or other “sensitive locations” unless there are extenuating circumstances. However, many districts are still on high alert and are taking measures to ensure that immigration authorities do not create an atmosphere of fear on campus.
As the tension continues, many districts across California are advocating for a policy shift, hoping to create a more supportive and secure environment for all students, regardless of their immigration status.
– With reports by Public News Service.
