Communities In Schools of Michigan的动态

I am honored to have been interviewed for an EdSource article on the critical rights of immigrant students and families in California schools. I have witnessed the profound impact of (and need for) policies that ensure all students—regardless of immigration status—can access a safe and equitable education. In this article, I discuss: ? The need for updated sanctuary policies in schools. ? Protections under laws like AB 699, FERPA, and the McKinney-Vento Act. ? What schools and colleges can do to safeguard students and families. At a time of heightened uncertainty for immigrant communities, it’s more important than ever to advocate for safe, welcoming learning environments. I hope this resource helps families, educators, and advocates navigate these challenging times. We also have a KNOW YOUR RIGHTS guide for students and families in California: https://lnkd.in/gj7Q6BTC. ?? You can read the full article here: https://lnkd.in/gzkvUyU7 ?? Let’s continue the conversation: What strategies have you seen schools use to build trust with immigrant families and protect their rights? Share your thoughts in the comments below! #EducationEquity #ImmigrantRights #SanctuarySchools #PolicyAdvocacy #EdSource

?? Education is a Right—For Every Child This week, the announcement of new immigration enforcement guidelines shook many families across our community. I’ve seen firsthand how fear and uncertainty can ripple through our schools, touching students, parents, and educators alike. Yesterday, some of our students stayed home—families afraid to send their children to the one place they should always feel safe: school. ?? As educators, we stand united in saying: Our schools remain safe, welcoming environments for ALL students. No law enforcement officer will approach a child at school without proper legal protocols, and we do not collect or share immigration status. More importantly, we will advocate fiercely for every child’s right to a free, appropriate education, as guaranteed by law. For families feeling overwhelmed by these changes, please know: ?? We see you. We support you. ?? Counselors and wellness staff are available to help students navigate the stress and anxiety these policies may bring. ?? Stay connected: Updating your child’s emergency contact information ensures they have a trusted adult who can step in, if needed. As an advocate for children with diverse abilities and as a mother, I cannot overstate the importance of creating environments where ALL children—regardless of immigration status, ability, or background—can feel secure, supported, and empowered to learn. The right to education is not conditional; it is foundational. If you’re also passionate about fostering inclusion, advocating for equitable policies, or supporting public education, let’s connect. Together, we can ensure that fear never stands in the way of a child’s future. ?? #EducationForAll #InclusionMatters #Advocacy #ImmigrationPolicy #SLP #PublicEducation #EquityInEducation

???? Today, team members from YWCA Tulsa joined organizations and programs from across Oklahoma at the Oklahoma State Department of Education headquarters in Oklahoma City. Oklahomans spoke out against a proposed rule that would require schools to ask for proof of U.S. citizenship. YWCA Tulsa firmly opposes this discriminatory proposal. It aims to create a chilling effect, discouraging children and families of mixed immigration status from accessing the public education they are entitled to. At worst, it directly penalizes minors for immigration matters far beyond their control, compromising their educational opportunities. Children already face enough concerns about their safety in schools without being questioned about their immigration status at the time of enrollment. ???? We stand united for dignity and justice in education. We will continue to support and fight for the rights of our immigrant and refugee communities, advocating for an educational system where all students, regardless of immigration status, can thrive.?? Read more about todays public hearing: https://buff.ly/40oqJKY The Oklahoma State Board of Education is expected to vote on this harmful proposal on January 28. Stay informed and take action to ensure every child’s right to education is protected. #EliminatingRacism #EmpoweringWomen #JusticeForAll

Despite rules that protect schools and other sensitive locations from immigration enforcement, threats of ICE near schools create fear that disrupts education and undermines trust in school communities. New York City Public Schools’ 2017 immigrant protection policy, which remains in effect, offers a roadmap for school principals and frontline stakeholders to shield students from overreach while staying compliant with federal law. The Century Foundation fellow Alejandra Vázquez Baur, M.A. Baur and INTERNATIONALS NETWORK founder Claire E. Sylvan explain how district leaders across the country can prepare with clear guidance. https://lnkd.in/eXrE4E3T

Children are fundamentally blameless when it comes to questions of their families’ legal documentation for U.S. residency—yet the conservative Heritage Foundation, which has been mapping out its playbook for a potential second Trump administration, recently released?its policy strategy?for overturning the 1982 Supreme Court ruling that prohibited children from being denied access to education based on their families’ immigration status. The think tank’s stance furthers the aims of Texas Republican Gov. Greg Abbott and a growing?chorus?of right-wing activists eager to?reopen?yet another?polarizing?front in American political discourse, this time to block some children from U.S. public schools. In a new piece for The 74 Media, TCF's Conor Williams and Alejandra Vázquez Baur, M.A. write that policies that make it harder for us to support and develop the skills of young immigrant children are not just inhumane—they undermine our ability to?attract and integrate?immigrant families, a strength?of the U.S. relative to its peer countries. https://lnkd.in/e4TTsQxV

Did you know that public schools are legally required to serve all children, regardless of their immigration status? The landmark U.S. Supreme Court ruling in?Plyler v. Doe?affirms that undocumented students have the right to access public education without fear of discrimination. Key Rights for Immigrant Students: ?? Admission: Schools cannot deny enrollment based on a student’s immigration status. ?? Privacy: Students and families should never be asked to disclose their immigration status. ?? Documentation: Schools are not allowed to require Social Security numbers or engage in practices that could expose a student's undocumented status. In light of current political shifts, it is essential that we continue to uphold the right to education for all children, ensuring schools remain welcoming and supportive environments. ?? For additional resources and guidance for educators, families, and advocates supporting immigrant students, visit?IDRA's website:?https://idra.news/ImmigEd #ImmigrantStudents #EducationForAll #PlylervDoe #UndocumentedStudents

CHILDREN AT RISK is proud to join the Education for All campaign, led by the National Immigration Law Center, to protect K-12 public education access for all children, regardless of immigration status. This coalition of 35 organizations, including leading education, immigrant rights, and civil rights groups, is dedicated to ensuring that every child can continue to access a free public education, a fundamental right and pillar of our democracy. “Providing free public education to all children living in America ensures that no state is allowed to inadvertently create an underclass of children by depriving them of an education,” said Linda Corchado, senior director of immigration at Children at Risk. “Free public education ensures that not one child is placed at a permanent and insurmountable competitive disadvantage, because if there could ever be a silver bullet to eradicate poverty, it is the unencumbered right to an education.” Together, we stand against those who aim to weaken our public schools by targeting immigrant communities. Learn more: www.education4all.us #EducationForAll #ChildrenAtRisk #ProtectOurKids #EqualAccess #NILC #EducationRights #ForChildren

**Facing Fear: How LA Schools Are Standing Firm Against Immigration Raids** ?? **The Challenge Ahead:** As schools in Los Angeles brace for potential immigration raids, the anxiety among thousands of immigrant families is palpable. There is an urgent need to address these fears and ensure that every child receives an uninterrupted education. ?? **A Beacon of Hope:** Thankfully, the narrative is shifting. Schools are stepping up to create safe havens through informed policies and community engagement. ?? **Building Safe Spaces:** Los Angeles schools are pioneering initiatives to support and protect students. They've bolstered efforts to train staff in handling immigration encounters with sensitivity and care. ?? **Why This Matters:** - **Protection:** Safeguarding students from unnecessary trauma. - **Information:** Keeping families well-informed reduces panic. - **Continuity:** Ensuring that fear doesn't rob students of their right to education. ?? **Your Role:** - Join forces with community groups to share and access vital resources. - Stay informed about school policies designed to protect and support every student. ?? **Together We Can:** Let's foster safer environments where every child feels secure and nurtured, making education a steadfast priority. ?? **Get Involved:** Share your thoughts, offer support, and connect with local community initiatives to make a difference!

The Denver and Aurora school districts and the DSST charter network have shared details about how building leaders should respond if immigration agents show up or request information.