Concerns are escalating nationwide over new federal efforts to identify, locate and deport students, with school leaders increasingly focused on how these actions may affect their schools. As immigration enforcement intensifies, questions are being raised about whether federal agents could attempt to enter schools, access student records, interview staff or students, or even remove individuals from school grounds.
In response, school districts across the country are working to establish clear protocols for handling any interactions with federal immigration authorities. These measures are essential to ensuring the safety and well-being of all students and staff, especially those from immigrant families who may be vulnerable to deportation.
“We are facing a new and complex challenge,” said Dr. Leonard P. Pugliese, president of the American Federation of School Administrators (AFSA). “It is crucial that school districts, working with school leaders, implement clear, consistent procedures if immigration officers attempt to enter schools or access student records. The safety of our students and staff must remain our top priority.”
AFSA has been working closely with local unions, providing research and guidance to help them work with their districts crafting policies for responding to federal immigration actions on school campuses.
“We are advocating for procedures that not only protect students, but also safeguard our staff from potential legal or disciplinary consequences for complying with federal immigration requests,” said Pugliese. “Teachers, administrators and staff must feel supported and confident that their actions are in line with district guidelines.”
The push for clear immigration protocols comes amid growing concerns that federal immigration enforcement could disrupt school operations, instill fear among students and families, and potentially lead to the removal of students from school grounds. Some educators worry that these policies could lead to mass student withdrawals or exacerbate the already significant stress faced by immigrant families navigating a complex legal system.
“We cannot allow fear to compromise our schools. All students, regardless of their background, deserve to learn in a safe and supportive environment, free from the threat of deportation," said Pugliese. "AFSA recognizes that this is an ongoing challenge, and we are committed to collaborating with education leaders and policymakers to ensure that schools continue to be safe and inclusive spaces for all students and staff, while fully safeguarding their rights."
