The Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) has taken a proactive step to address potential immigration enforcement actions in schools by releasing comprehensive guidance for educational institutions across the state.
Key Points of the Guidance
Reaffirming Educational Rights: The guidance strongly reinforces the longstanding right of all students to access public education, regardless of their immigration status or that of their parents or guardians.
Preparing for Enforcement Actions: ISBE advises schools to develop local policies in anticipation of potential immigration enforcement activities on school property. This includes:
- Adopting clear policies on how to respond to enforcement actions
- Designating specific personnel to handle interactions with immigration officials
- Establishing procedures for reviewing and tracking records requests
- Ensuring all staff are familiar with the school’s policies
Data Protection: Schools are urged to update and clearly communicate their student data-sharing policies to protect sensitive information
Staff Training: The guidance emphasizes the importance of training all school personnel on proper implementation of these policies
Emergency Preparedness: ISBE recommends that schools encourage parents to keep emergency contact information up-to-date and develop procedures for situations where a student’s parent may be detained or deported.
ISBE’s Stance
State Superintendent of Education Dr. Tony Sanders emphasized the dual legal and moral obligation of schools to protect students’ rights. He stated, “ISBE firmly believes that schools should be a safe haven for all students, where students should be able to learn without fear,” urging districts to take necessary steps to safeguard students and their right to education.
Broader Context
This guidance comes in response to changes in federal immigration enforcement policies under the Trump Administration. It aims to equip schools with the knowledge and procedures needed to navigate potential enforcement actions while maintaining a safe and inclusive learning environment for all students
The ISBE has made this guidance, along with additional “Know Your Rights” resources from immigrant advocacy organizations, available on their website to ensure wide accessibility for educational institutions across Illinois
This proactive approach by ISBE demonstrates a commitment to protecting the educational rights of all students in Illinois, regardless of their immigration status, and provides a framework for schools to maintain a safe and supportive learning environment in the face of potential immigration enforcement actions.
