Unified School District
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 , 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,
Kim Moses, Ed.D
Interim Superintendent
West Contra Costa Unified School District
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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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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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.
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.
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.
We have compiled various immigration resources that are crucial for the community to revisit. Key documents include the Safe Haven Resolution from 2016, adopted by the Board of Education, which outlines the district's commitment to protecting immigrant students and families. Additionally, resources from the Association of California School Administrators and a fact sheet by Fagen Friedman & Fulfrost provide key legal questions and answers concerning the rights of undocumented students. These materials serve as an important guide to understanding legal protections and ensuring the safety and well-being of students.
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.
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:
Download the Immigration Fact Sheet (Spanish)
Nuestras escuelas tienen un plan de respuesta sobre qué hacer si hay actividad de Inmigración y Control de Aduanas (ICE) en o cerca de una escuela.
Our schools have a response plan on what to do if there is Immigration Customs Enforcement (ICE) activity on or near a school. We encourage families to download the brochure.
