Uncertainty Looms for Immigrant Families as Schools Become Potential Enforcement Sites
Recent shifts in immigration policy have left many immigrant families in the United States apprehensive about their children’s safety at school. With the Trump administration’s decision to permit arrests at schools, churches, and hospitals, communities across the nation are grappling with increased anxiety.
In an effort to reassure worried families, educators in various districts are emphasizing that schools remain safe environments for children. However, the rescission of the 2011 policy shielding “sensitive locations” from immigration enforcement has heightened fears. Carmen, a Mexican immigrant living in the San Francisco Bay Area, expressed her shock and concern: “Oh, dear God! I can’t imagine why they would do that.”
As many immigrant families, including those legally residing in the U.S., assess their public presence, school districts are closely monitoring any potential decline in student attendance. Missing school poses additional challenges for students, particularly those from low-income backgrounds, as schools serve as access points for food, mental health support, and other essential services.
Schools Respond to Policy Changes
Following the policy change, the Department of Homeland Security stated, “Criminals will no longer be able to hide in America’s schools and churches to avoid arrest.” This stance has been met with criticism from educators like Daniela Anello, head of D.C. Bilingual Public Charter School, who described the move as “horrific” and “ridiculous.”
In response, some states and school districts are taking steps to defend the rights of immigrant students. California has guided schools on state laws that limit local participation in immigration enforcement. Meanwhile, Chicago Public Schools have resolved not to assist ICE without a criminal warrant, and New York City has reminded principals of policies that prohibit collecting students’ immigration status.
However, not all districts have offered assurances to immigrant families. At Georgia Fugees Academy Charter School, officials anticipated high absenteeism following Trump’s inauguration, prompting them to adjust exam schedules. “They’re not even at risk of deportation and they’re still scared,” said Luma Mufleh, the school’s Chief Operating Officer.
Community Concerns and Reactions
For some parents, schools remain among the few perceived safe havens. Iris Gonzalez, who has children attending Boston schools, believes in the importance of education despite her immigration status. “Education is important,” she noted in Spanish, expressing concerns about other public spaces like courthouses or driving, despite having a license.
Carmen, whose family fled violence in Mexico and sought asylum in the U.S., reiterated the fear of having “nowhere to go back to.” Her family entered under a program allowing asylum-seekers to apply for residency, which has since faced obstacles under the new administration.
The Associated Press’ education coverage receives financial support from multiple private foundations. AP is solely responsible for all content. Find AP’s standards for working with philanthropies, a list of supporters and funded coverage areas at AP.org.
Originally Published:
Read More Here
Be First to Comment