California Attorney General Rob Bonta has issued guidance aimed at addressing concerns about immigration enforcement on school campuses. The guidance, intended for students, families, educators, and school officials, seeks to ensure a safe educational environment. Three documents have been released: one offering practical advice for school officials if immigration officers visit campuses, another providing model policies for K-12 public schools to comply with state law, and a third outlining the rights of immigrant students and their families.
"All children have a constitutional right to access a public education, regardless of their immigration status," stated Attorney General Bonta. He emphasized that schools should be safe places for learning and growth but acknowledged that recent presidential orders have caused fear in immigrant communities. "My office is committed to ensuring our educators have the tools and knowledge they need to respond appropriately if immigration officers come to their campus – and that immigrant students and families understand their rights and protections under the law."
The guidance advises school officials on steps to take if an immigration officer arrives on campus. Officials are instructed to notify local educational agency administrators before proceeding with any requests from officers unless exigent circumstances exist. They should also document the officer's credentials and reasons for being on school grounds while not consenting to access without proper authorization.
Parents or guardians should be notified as soon as possible if an officer intends to question or remove a student unless prevented by legal constraints. Schools are encouraged to report any attempts by law enforcement officers accessing campuses for immigration purposes by emailing immigration@doj.ca.gov.
Additionally, the rights of immigrant students include equal access to free public education under the U.S. Constitution's Equal Protection Clause. Schools must accept various documents proving age or residency without retaining copies unnecessarily. Federal and state laws protect personal information in student records.
The complete guides are available in multiple languages at oag.ca.gov/immigrant/resources.