As immigration policies continue to change, the Alhambra Unified School District remains deeply committed to providing a welcoming, secure, and inclusive learning environment for every student, no matter their immigration status. We want to reassure our families that every child has the right to a public education, as protected by federal and state laws. This right is unwavering, regardless of a student's or their family’s immigration status.
(in English, Chinese, Spanish and Vietnamese)
AUSD Board Statement
The Board of Education is committed to the success of all students and believes that every school site should be a welcoming place for all students and their families irrespective of their citizenship or immigration status. As a school district, we maintain our commitment to remaining nonpartisan on politics; however, we want to respond to the fear and anxiety some are currently experiencing, knowing that our primary responsibility is to take care of our children. We want our community to know that schools and classrooms are safe and inclusive places for all students and all families.
A Message from
Superintendent Dr. Denise Jaramillo
(in English, Chinese, Spanish and Vietnamese)
District Response
AUSD employees are directed to not share any information about students, families or staff. We do not request a student’s or family’s citizenship or immigration status for enrollment and cannot disclose such information without the written consent of the parents – this information is protected under both federal and state law.
Staff, teachers, students and parents should immediately refer ICE agents to the school administrator. Without a federal judicial warrant or exigent circumstances, we have the authority to prevent anyone from entering our school campuses. An administrator will only accept a valid signed court order as justification for admission to campus.
All students possess the right to a public education, independent of their immigration status, as guaranteed by federal and state constitutional protections. Our schools are required to ensure that no student is denied enrollment or faces barriers to their education due to their or their family’s immigration status.
While recent changes to the sensitive locations policy no longer prevent Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents from taking enforcement actions at places such as schools, churches, and hospitals, these changes do not override students’ constitutional rights to an education or state constitutional protections.
Non-Discrimination and Student Rights
All students, including those who are undocumented or from immigrant families, have the right to:
Attend public school.
Participate in school activities.
Receive a quality education free from discrimination.
Schools remain places where students can learn without fear. Immigration enforcement officers are prohibited from accessing school campuses unless they present a judicial warrant or signed court order.
Resource Description
English
Chinese
Spanish
KNOW YOUR RIGHTS
All people in the United States, regardless of immigration status, have certain rights and protections under the U.S. Constitution. The ILRC’s Red Cards help people assert their rights and defend themselves.
Reading aloud a person’s rights – This could be useful in situations where someone needs to quickly access and understand their legal rights, such as during an interaction with law enforcement or immigration authorities.
Sending a message – This could be an emergency alert or notification sent to a designated contact.
PREPAREDNESS PLAN
Every family should have a Family Preparedness Plan in case of an emergency. It is critical for immigrant families to think ahead and set more concrete plans for immigration emergencies that can arise.
PROTECT YOURSELF FROM IMMIGRATION SCAMS
Be careful who you hire when seeking help applying for immigration relief and avoid scams. These are some tips on how to protect yourself.
AUSD Student Support Services | 626-943-3410
Provides resources and programs, including counseling and family resources to support the academic, social, emotional and behavioral success of students and their families.
LA COUNTY OFFICE OF EDUCATION (LACOE)
Los Angeles County Office of Education supports school districts, students and parents with information and responds to school needs around immigration policies including family preparedness, legal service, mental health and Medi-Cal resources.
LA COUNTY OFFICE OF IMMIGRANT AFFAIRS
IMMIGRANT LEGAL RESOURCE CENTER
The ILRC seeks to improve immigration law and policy, expand the capacity of legal service providers, and advance immigrant rights.
CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
The California Department of Education (CDE) provides valuables resources to support immigrant families.
Resources to support in the Case of Immigration Enforcement on School Campuses
CDE Immigration Enforcement Guidance Notecard for School Personnel
CDE Support for English Learner, Immigrant, and Migratory Students
The mission of the Gateway To Success program is to help each student reach his or her educational potential, by addressing the student’s social-emotional, behavioral, and overall well-being.