This week’s evidence is a timely reality for far too many. What should schools do if ICE agents arrive at the door? This thoughtful New York Times offers examples of how several school districts are developing protocols for this eventuality.
First, schools need positive outreach to encourage parents to send their children to school every day. They are safe in school and have to make up for an enormous learning loss suffered by many immigrant children.
Second, building leaders must have a clear protocol, including asking ICE agents to remain outside the building and immediately call district lawyers to inspect the ICE paperwork that the agents are using to demand entry.
Third, teachers should have procedures to provide for the emotional safety of students who fear ICE and worry about being separated from their parents. This might include emergency housing and food assistance in case parents are departed, leaving school-age children without parental care.
Here is the complete article: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/01/07/us/immigration-deportations-ice-schools.html