If immigration officials attempt to enter your school building, educators should:
- IMMEDIATELY notify school administration in writing and verbally.
- DO NOT release any student information to anyone except when directed by administration.
- Follow all district policies and directives regarding ICE requests.
- DO NOT attempt to obstruct enforcement. Contact school administration.
- Contact your UniServ Field Representative.
As educators, the safety and emotional health of our students matters. Maintain a welcoming classroom for your students. Be attentive to signs of stress or fear and refer students to school guidance counselors or administrators when appropriate.
Educators also should be aware of the following facts:
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School districts must legally provide equal access to education to all students (Plyler v. Doe).
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Student records, including immigration status, are protected under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act.
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The school environment and enrollment must be free from discrimination under NJ Law Against Discrimination and school law.
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Locals can advocate for boards to adopt Safe Zone policies.
Know Your Rights
NEA Guidance on Immigration Issues
The second Trump Administration will have a large impact on immigration policies affecting students, schools, and communities. Here's what you need to know to prepare.
Immigrant Legal Resource Center
This resource provides practical tips for things immigrant families can do now to prepare as well as information on rights everyone has in the United States, regardless of immigration status.
ACLU – Know Your Rights
Regardless of your immigration status, you have guaranteed rights under the Constitution. Learn more here about your rights as an immigrant, and how to express them.
How Schools Can Partner With Immigrant Families
Learn more about four key steps that schools can take to partner with immigrant families.
Immigrant Defense Project
Immigrant Defense Project protects and expands the rights of all immigrants, focusing at the intersection of the criminal and immigration systems.
Immigrant Legal Resource Center – Red Cards
All people in the U.S., regardless of immigration status, have certain rights and protections under the Constitution. The ILRC’s Red Cards help people assert their rights.
Resources
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*This resource includes a reference to the Department of Homeland Security’s “sensitive locations” guidance, which has now been revoked.