The federal government has overturned the sensitive locations policy, permitting Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents to conduct enforcement activities in places previously deemed sensitive, such as schools, churches and hospitals. This change may understandably create anxiety among students and families.
To that end, we are sharing new resources and guidance to staff, students and families to help navigate this challenging change from the State, the California Department of Education (CDE) and the California Department of Justice (CADOJ):
The National Immigration Law Center (NILC) has provided a factsheet that contains information about the previous policy and the implications of the rescission for previously protected areas, including TK-12 schools.
Gov. Gavin Newsom and his administration have established an immigration website that addresses the confidentiality of student information, legal help and mental health resources. Visit the website here.
CDE: Reminder of Obligation to Protect Immigrant Families’ Rights to Access Public Education
CADOJ: “The complete Guide for Students and Families is available in English and Spanish at oag.ca.gov/immigrant/resources.
CADOJ: “The complete Quick Reference for School Officials guide is available in English and Spanish
Assembly Member Al Muratsuchi (D-Torrance) has introduced AB 49, which would prevent school agencies and day care centers from allowing ICE agents onto their campuses without a warrant and approval from the superintendent or director.
In the Senate, SB 48 by Lena Gonzalez (D-Long Beach) would prohibit an LEA and its personnel from disclosing the education records of or any information about a pupil, pupil’s family and household, school employee, or teacher to federal immigration or enforcement officers without a judicial warrant.
