Immigration Support & Resources
We understand that the recent actions implemented by the federal government may be causing anxiety and uncertainty within our schools and communities regarding immigration enforcement. Our commitment to providing a safe and inclusive learning environment for all students is unwavering.
This is reaffirmed by our recently approved anti-racism policy and , which outlines the following key protections for immigration matters:
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Protection of Student and Family Information: District employees, personnel, and contractors are prohibited from sharing personal information about students or their families, including immigration status, with immigration authorities. This includes any data systems. FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act) and HIPPA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) are longstanding federal laws that further protect student data.
WCCUSD schools and offices serve as safe spaces for all students and families. If you or your family are experiencing fear or anxiety related to immigration enforcement, please know that you can seek help, assistance, and support from any District school or office.
We are committed to providing ongoing support and resources for our students and families. Please stay tuned for further updates and resources on creating a safe and welcoming learning environment for all.
In Service and Community,
Kim Moses, Ed.D
Interim Superintendent
West Contra Costa Unified School District
Regardless of your immigration status, you have guaranteed rights under the Constitution.
Learn more here about your rights as an immigrant, and how to express them.
INDEPENDIENTEMENTE DE SU ESTATUS MIGRATORIO, TIENE DERECHOS GARANTIZADOS BAJO LA CONSTITUCIÓN.
OBTENGA MÁS INFORMACIÓN AQUÍ SOBRE SUS DERECHOS COMO INMIGRANTE Y CÓMO EXPRESARLOS.
Know Your Rights
You have the right to remain silent and do not have to discuss your immigration or citizenship status with police, immigration agents, or other officials. Anything you tell an officer can later be used against you in immigration court.
Retrieved from .
If you are not a U.S. citizen and an immigration agent requests your immigration papers, you must show them if you have them with you.
Retrieved from .
If an immigration agent asks if they can search you, you have the right to say no. Agents do not have the right to search you or your belongings without your consent or probable cause.
Retrieved from .
If you’re over 18, carry your papers with you at all times. If you don’t have them, tell the officer that you want to remain silent, or that you want to consult a lawyer before answering any questions.
Retrieved from .
Every student in California has the right to attend public school free from discrimination, harassment, violence, intimidation, and bullying.
(California Education Code [EC] 220, 234, et seq.)
All children in the United States, regardless of immigration or citizenship status, have the right to a free and appropriate public education.
(Plyler v. Doe, 457 U.S. 202 [1982]).
Reminder of Obligation to Protect Immigrant Families' Rights to Access Public Education
All children in the United States, regardless of immigration or citizenship status, have a right to a free and appropriate public education. In response to request for information and support from local educational agencies (LEAs), the California Department of Education (CDE) is sharing resources to preserve access to education for students from immigrant families during times of increased fear of immigration enforcement.
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Attorney General Guidance
The California Attorney General's guidance, titled "Promoting a Safe and Secure Learning Environment for All," provides model policies to help K-12 schools address immigration-related issues, ensuring the protection of students' rights and the creation of safe educational spaces.
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California Department of Education's Newcomer Students Guidance
The California Department of Education's Newcomer Students webpage provides guidance and resources for educators, families, and community organizations working with recently arrived immigrant students. It covers educational support, instructional strategies, and links to state and federal programs aimed at fostering academic success and social integration.
Immigration Myth vs. Fact from the Contra Costa County Office of the Sheriff's Office
The Sheriff’s Office is committed to fair and equitable law enforcement, ensuring all community members are treated without bias toward their immigration status. Operating in compliance with federal and state laws, including the Trust Act, the Office does not arrest individuals solely based on immigration status, participate in ICE sweeps, or extend jail stays beyond scheduled release dates. ICE notification requests are limited to individuals with specific violent criminal backgrounds. Additionally, to foster trust, the immigration status of victims and witnesses is never investigated, ensuring they feel secure in seeking assistance or reporting crimes.
Know the FACTS:
Download the Immigration Fact Sheet (Spanish)