Immigration and Custom Enforcement (ICE) raids have begun across the country and the new Trump administration removed a long-standing protection placing schools, hospitals and churches off-limits to such enforcement actions.
On Monday, PUSD Superintendent Dr. Jennifer Hawn sent the following message to the school community:
I have received several questions about the President’s Executive Orders regarding immigration, including the challenges and uncertainties immigrant families may be facing. To support our community, I want to provide important information and resources below.
By law, every child in the United States, regardless of immigration or citizenship status, has the right to a free and appropriate public education (Plyler v. Doe, 457 U.S. 202 [1982]). In California, every student also has the right to attend public school free from discrimination, harassment, violence, intimidation, and bullying (California Education Code [EC] 220, 234, et seq.).
Federal and state laws safeguard student education records and personal information. It is important to note that our district does not collect immigration or citizenship information. While there are many state and county resources available to support our community, a helpful starting point is the California Department of Justice website HERE.
At the heart of our work is a commitment to “cultivate a culture of caring, belonging, and trust.” Together, let’s continue to work together to create schools that are safe, welcoming spaces where every student is valued, feels secure, and can thrive.
Thank you for your partnership in supporting our students.
Piedmont Pulse, Jan. 17, 2025
The California Department of Justice website includes the following guide for students and families:
