Schools no longer protected from immigration raids

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security lifted the practice of avoiding immigration enforcement at locations where students gather.

Published Jan. 21, 2025

Education Dive

Kara Arundel

Schools No Longer Protected from Immigration Raids: Implications for Educators

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced the revocation of its prior policy that designated schools, colleges, and other sensitive locations as “protected areas” from immigration enforcement actions. This decision, implemented on January 21, 2025, marks a significant shift under President Donald Trump’s second administration, reflecting his campaign promises to enforce stricter immigration policies.

Policy Reversal Details

The revoked policy previously instructed Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents to avoid conducting enforcement actions in sensitive locations, such as elementary and secondary schools, colleges, hospitals, and churches. The Biden administration had expanded the definition of protected areas to include a variety of child- and youth-centered spaces such as playgrounds, recreation centers, school bus stops, vocational schools, and childcare centers. Under the Trump administration’s new directive, ICE and CBP agents are now authorized to conduct operations at these locations.

Rationale Behind the Policy Change

A DHS spokesperson justified the reversal, stating that the new policy allows law enforcement to target “criminal aliens” who might otherwise evade capture by seeking refuge in sensitive locations. The administration emphasized that this approach is necessary to uphold immigration laws and protect public safety, asserting that common sense would guide law enforcement actions. This policy shift aligns with claims by Trump and some Republican leaders that undocumented immigrants are straining U.S. school systems, despite research suggesting otherwise.

Impacts on Schools and Students

Educators and advocates have raised concerns about the potential ramifications of this policy shift on schools and students. Immigration enforcement at or near schools could disrupt learning environments, create fear among immigrant families, and deter undocumented students from attending school. Research indicates that immigrant and newcomer students often contribute positively to school systems, both academically and fiscally, contradicting the claims of overwhelming burden.

Approximately 5.5 million children under age 18 were living with an undocumented parent in 2019, according to the Migration Policy Institute, representing about 7% of the U.S. child population. The policy change may disproportionately impact these students and their families, increasing stress and uncertainty within school communities.

Advocates’ Perspectives and School Responsibilities

Advocates for immigrant students had anticipated this policy reversal and urged schools to prepare for potential immigration enforcement scenarios. Schools now face the challenge of balancing compliance with federal directives while maintaining safe, supportive environments for all students. Administrators are encouraged to review protocols for handling ICE presence on school grounds and to provide clear communication to families regarding their rights and available resources.

Implications for Educators

Educators play a crucial role in addressing the fears and challenges this policy change may introduce. They can support affected students by fostering inclusive classroom environments, being vigilant for signs of trauma, and connecting families with community resources. Advocacy efforts may also include collaborating with local organizations to ensure students' access to education is not disrupted.

This policy reversal underscores the ongoing intersection of immigration policy and education, highlighting the need for informed and proactive responses from schools.

Citation: Arundel, K. (2025, January 21). Schools no longer protected from immigration raids. K-12 Dive. Retrieved from https://www.k12dive.com/news/schools-no-longer-protected-from-immigration-raids/

Original Article

------------------------------

Prepared with the assistance of AI software

OpenAI. (2025). ChatGPT (4) [Large language model]. https://chat.openai.com