Immigration Support & Resources

 

We understand that the recent actions implemented by the federal government may be causing anxiety and uncertainty within our schools and communities regarding immigration enforcement. Our commitment to providing a safe and inclusive learning environment for all students is unwavering. 

This is reaffirmed by our recently approved anti-racism policy and Resolution No. 2425-54 In Support of all our Students, Staff and Families Regardless of Race, Gender Identity, Gender Expression, Sexual Orientation, or Immigration Status, which outlines the following key protections for immigration matters:

• Protection of Student and Family Information: District employees, personnel, and contractors are prohibited from sharing personal information about students or their families, including immigration status, with immigration authorities. This includes any data systems. FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act) and HIPPA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) are longstanding federal laws that further protect student data. 

WCCUSD schools and offices serve as safe spaces for all students and families. If you or your family are experiencing fear or anxiety related to immigration enforcement, please know that you can seek help, assistance, and support from any District school or office.

We are committed to providing ongoing support and resources for our students and families. Please stay tuned for further updates and resources on creating a safe and welcoming learning environment for all.

In Service and Community,
West Contra Costa Unified School District

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.

CLICK TO KNOW YOUR RIGHTS

INDEPENDIENTEMENTE DE SU ESTATUS MIGRATORIO, TIENE DERECHOS GARANTIZADOS BAJO LA CONSTITUCIÓN. OBTENGA MÁS INFORMACIÓN AQUÍ SOBRE SUS DERECHOS COMO INMIGRANTE Y CÓMO EXPRESARLOS.

Know Your Rights

You have the right to remain silent and do not have to discuss your immigration or citizenship status with police, immigration agents, or other officials. Anything you tell an officer can later be used against you in immigration court.

Retrieved from ACLU.org.

 

If you are not a U.S. citizen and an immigration agent requests your immigration papers, you must show them if you have them with you.

Retrieved from ACLU.org.

 

If an immigration agent asks if they can search you, you have the right to say no. Agents do not have the right to search you or your belongings without your consent or probable cause.

Retrieved from ACLU.org.

 

If you’re over 18, carry your papers with you at all times. If you don’t have them, tell the officer that you want to remain silent, or that you want to consult a lawyer before answering any questions.

Retrieved from ACLU.org.

 

Every student in California has the right to attend public school free from discrimination, harassment, violence, intimidation, and bullying.

(California Education Code [EC] 220, 234, et seq.)

 

All children in the United States, regardless of immigration or citizenship status, have the right to a free and appropriate public education.

(Plyler v. Doe, 457 U.S. 202 [1982]).

 

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Resources to Support In Case of Immigration Enforcement on School Campuses

All children in the United States, regardless of immigration or citizenship status, have a right to a free and appropriate public education. In response to requests for information and support from local educational agencies (LEAs), the California Department of Education (CDE) is sharing the information and resources below to preserve access to education for students from immigrant families during times of increased fear of immigration enforcement.2

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What to do if an Immigration Enforcement Officer Comes to Your School

Please note that content in this document constitutes state program guidelines, designed to serve as model guidance for school personnel. These guidelines are merely exemplary, and compliance with them is not mandatory. California Education Code § 33308.5. Legal requirements summarized in this guidance, however, continue to apply.

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WCCUSD Parent Guidance for School Preparedness

WCCUSD stands with our students, families, and staff during these challenging times and is committed to doing everything possible to ensure schools are safe and inclusive for all students and families. Our schools have a response plan on what to do if there is Immigration Customs Enforcement (ICE) activity on or near a school. We expect that it is very unlikely that ICE would come onto a school campus, however, we do want to be prepared. The information shared in this document includes our district-wide plan.

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WCCUSD District Protocols for Emergency Response to I.C.E

District protocols for emergency response to ICE ensure the safety of students and families. They include procedures for notifying legal counsel, protecting student privacy, and limiting ICE access to campuses. Schools prioritize education while safeguarding rights during immigration enforcement actions.

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Reminder of Obligation to Protect Immigrant Families' Rights to Access Public Education 

All children in the United States, regardless of immigration or citizenship status, have a right to a free and appropriate public education. In response to request for information and support from local educational agencies (LEAs), the California Department of Education (CDE) is sharing resources to preserve access to education for students from immigrant families during times of increased fear of immigration enforcement. 

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Know your Educational Rights (A Guide for Students & Families)

Stay informed about your educational rights under California’s Immigration Enforcement Actions. Every student has the right to attend school regardless of immigration status. Know your rights to ensure equal access to education and protection from immigration-related disruptions.

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Attorney General Guidance

The California Attorney General's guidance, titled "Promoting a Safe and Secure Learning Environment for All," provides model policies to help K-12 schools address immigration-related issues, ensuring the protection of students' rights and the creation of safe educational spaces.

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California Department of Education's Newcomer Students Guidance

The California Department of Education's Newcomer Students webpage provides guidance and resources for educators, families, and community organizations working with recently arrived immigrant students. It covers educational support, instructional strategies, and links to state and federal programs aimed at fostering academic success and social integration.

Learn More...

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Immigration Myth vs. Fact from the Contra Costa County Office of the Sheriff's Office

The Sheriff’s Office is committed to fair and equitable law enforcement, ensuring all community members are treated without bias toward their immigration status. Operating in compliance with federal and state laws, including the Trust Act, the Office does not arrest individuals solely based on immigration status, participate in ICE sweeps, or extend jail stays beyond scheduled release dates. ICE notification requests are limited to individuals with specific violent criminal backgrounds. Additionally, to foster trust, the immigration status of victims and witnesses is never investigated, ensuring they feel secure in seeking assistance or reporting crimes.

Know the FACTS: Learn More... (English)

Download the Immigration Fact Sheet (Spanish)