Immigrant Rights & Education

Across the United States, immigrant students and families are facing unprecedented attacks on their right to safe and welcoming schools. Here in North Carolina, we have seen harmful bills become law despite a governor’s veto—laws that tear families apart, fuel racial profiling, and erode trust in law enforcement. Despite these attacks, federal protections still exist to help safeguard students and families from some of the worst consequences of these laws. Federal protections like FERPA prohibit schools from sharing personally identifiable information from students’ records with anyone outside of the school without parental consent (except in limited legal circumstances). Schools can also prevent immigration officials from entering private areas without a judicial warrant signed by a judge; without this, schools should not allow ICE to question or remove a student. Even with these protections in place, families may be more reluctant to participate in school events or utilize services if they fear contact with law enforcement. These attacks are part of a nationwide trend that threatens not only immigrant students’ education but also their safety, sense of belonging, and access to opportunities that every child deserves.

If you or your family have concerns about ICE interactions, we have put together resources to help you and your family plan effectively.