Immigration Supports for School Leaders
January 22, 2025
Resources for educational leaders in preparation of potential immigration enforcement.
Due to recent government actions including the rescinding of a 2021 memo on “protected areas” that included schools, the subject of immigration has been widely discussed across the country. Specifically, there are concerns that increasing efforts to deport undocumented individuals living in the United States will play out in schools and other places where children gather, learn and receive essential services.
It is important to understand that, by law, a child's immigration status (or that of their parents) does not affect their right to receive a public education. As always, school leaders are focused on providing a safe and welcoming learning environment where every student can grow, thrive and learn how to contribute productively to society.
AASA recognizes the current environment around immigration may raise serious concerns within your community. We are here to assist you in any way we can, and we encourage you to take advantage of the resources and supports available when making your plans and coordinating your outreach.
AASA Resources:
Fact Sheet
Immigration Facts for School LeadersHigh-level immigration talking points, facts and FAQs for school leaders
Checklist
An Education Leader’s Checklist in Preparation of Potential Immigration EnforcementSix items school leaders should take action on in preparing for potential immigration enforcement.
Templates
Communication Templates: Immigration ConcernsCommunication templates for school leaders regarding potential immigration enforcement.
Webinar Recording
Immigration Policy and Enforcement in 2025: What Superintendents Should UnderstandImmigration attorney, Mary Kate Fernandez from Adams & Reese, provides guidance to prepare your students and staff in the coming months.
USED Dear Colleague Letter and Resources for School Leaders & Educators:
- Resources for Ensuring Equal Access to Education for Immigrant Students
- Protecting Access to Education for Migratory Students
- Protecting Access to Education for Unaccompanied Minors
- Confronting Discrimination Based on National Origin or Immigration Status
DHS Guidance on Delegation of Parental Authority
AFT Toolkit
A Public School’s Guide to Enrolling And Supporting Immigrant Students
One-Pager on Plyler and Data Collection
Brookings Institute Face Sheet
Oregon Example
Video, Audio and Print Materials Regarding Sanctuary State Status
Template Resolutions
- Resolution to Designate Campuses as Safe Zones and to Create Resource Centers for Students and Families Threatened by Immigration Enforcement (source: National Immigration Law Center)
- Sample School Board Resolution (source: NEA)
District Examples
- Beaverton School District, Ore. Supports and Resolution
- Denver Public Schools, Colo.
Protocol on how to interact with ICE:
- 2017 School-ICE Resource (source: Fair Immigration Reform Movement)
- Protocols for NYC Non-Local Law Enforcement
- Massachusetts Protocols
Legal Resources:
- Students Rights to Enroll and Attend School
- Delegation of Parental Authority guide and forms by State
- Law Enforcement Access to Student Data: A Guide for School Administrators and Ed Tech Service Providers
- Fact Sheet: Information on the rights of all children to enroll in school
- Online Detainee Locator System: Immigration has an Online Detainee Locator System where anyone can check to see if someone they know has been detained by their first and last name.
Resources for Districts in Sanctuary States
Video, audio and print materials on sanctuary state policies
For Migrant Families:
Develop a family preparedness plan and identify a trusted contact for your student(s).
Update emergency contact information with someone not in your immediate family (preferably a US citizen, if possible).
Review and connect with any of the resources identified by your school district
The Detained or Deported Handbook for Families
Delegation of parental responsibilities paperwork for families to complete in offices if they wish.
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