I am worried about ICE at my child's school
What schools must do and what you can do this week.
4 steps
Step 1 of 4: Know what schools must do
California has rules for schools.
- ICE at School ParentsYes, agents can come near a school. Federal rules no longer keep them away. But California law puts strong limits on what your child's school can let them do, and you have real steps you can take this week to protect your kids. Here is what the law says and what to do.Guide
- School safety checklist for parentsPrint it and fill it in by handChecklist
Step 2 of 4: Do these things this week
Emergency cards, trusted adults and a plan.
- Protect your kids at schoolYou can do a lot this week. Update the school emergency card with two trusted adults, make a family plan, give your child a simple script, and know the rules your school must follow. California law now makes schools follow your emergency contact instructions first.Quick answer
- Family PlanWorried about being separated from your children? A plan made today helps them stay with someone they know and trust. You can do most of it this week, one step at a time.Guide
- Family plan checklistPrint it and fill it in by handChecklist
Step 3 of 4: Talk with your child
Calm, honest words help.
- Children Afraid of RaidsYour child heard about raids at school, saw a video, or watched it happen on your street. Now they are scared. You don't need perfect words. You need to listen, tell the truth in a way they can hold, and keep their days steady. Here's how, by age, with free help in California and the Bay Area.Guide
- What to say when your child is afraid of raidsPrint it and fill it in by handChecklist
Step 4 of 4: Get help from a person
You do not have to do this alone. Ask about cost, languages and current openings before you share documents.
- Know your educational rights (California schools)California Attorney General guidance for students and families on immigration enforcement at TK-12 schools. All children have a right to free public education regardless of their or their parents' immigration status.Organization
- Step-by-Step Family Preparedness PlanA free, fillable toolkit from the Immigrant Legal Resource Center to help families plan child care if a parent is detained, find trusted immigration help and prepare to assert their rights. It includes California child care options.Organization
This page puts DNLH guides in a useful order. It is general information, not legal advice. Each guide shows its sources and the date its facts were checked.
Not quite your situation?
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- I am enrolling my child in schoolEnrollment, meals, language help and special education.5 steps
- I finished college and want to work or keep studyingWork, licenses and graduate school.3 steps