Immigrant Inclusion and Support
A Commitment to Diversity, Inclusion, and Support for All VCUSD Families
We recognize that recent political developments have left many feeling uncertain and anxious. Please know that VCUSD is closely monitoring these changes and has clear plans should any law enforcement agency approach one of our campuses.
Last week, the new federal administration issued several executive orders, including the repeal of a Biden-era policy that classified schools as “protected areas.” The administration has also issued additional executive orders on immigration enforcement, gender equality, and the Department of Education. Understandably, you may question how these changes impact our schools, students, families, and staff.
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]).
Interacting with Immigration Enforcement Officers
This Quick Reference document, provided by the California Department of Justice (CA DOJ), provides a step-by-step guide for school officials on how to respond to requests from immigration enforcement officers.
Download the CA DOJ Quick Reference Guide for School Officials
American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU)
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.
Additional ACLU Resources
- If you need more information, contact your local ACLU affiliate.
- National Immigration Law Center: Know Your Rights
- A Toolkit for Organizations Responding to Mass Worksite Immigration Raids
- Immigrant Legal Resource Center
- American Immigration Lawyers Association
- ACLU VIDEO: What to do if stopped by police or ICE