There are many things that you can do to create educational environments in which students of all backgrounds can thrive socially, emotionally, and academically. Teachers, in particular, can create inclusive and safe learning environments for all students by incorporating lesson plans and classroom activities that are designed to cultivate empathy and trusting relationships, create a sense of belonging, and reduce discriminatory stereotypes and actions.
The contents of this guide were provided by our partners at Grantmakers Concerned with Immigrants and Refugees (GCIR) and Californians Together.
In the current climate, communities are afraid and unsure of what the future holds. To help students and their families grapple with the stress that comes with this uncertainty, education and preparation can be useful tools to empower immigrants and help them regain some sense of control. Schools, as trusted institutions in immigrant family’s lives, can play a critical role in ensuring that families have access to important information and resources, and that they are prepared for possible immigration arrests and/or detention. This Guidance for Schools from the Immigrant Legal Resource Center provides an excellent overview.
Under the Supreme Court’s landmark decision in Plyler v. Doe, all K-12 students in the United States are guaranteed a free public education regardless of immigration status. This right includes other services and programs provided through the public school system, such as free lunches and special education programs. However, how school districts comply with this obligation varies widely, and local policies and practice have a significant impact on creating safe environments for immigrant students.
States have different policies regarding admissions and enrollment for undocumented students in public post-secondary institutions, and many private colleges and universities have their own rules. At least 21 states provide in-state tuition to undocumented students and have been mapped by the National Immigration Law Center (NILC).
Many undocumented students have successfully navigated post-secondary education and have shared their stories. The California State University “Resources for Undocumented Students” provides an excellent example of how to provide access to information and resources for undocumented students.
Colleges and universities across the country have adopted policies and procedures to ensure safety for immigrant students. Some schools have established “Dream Centers” to provide specialized support for undocumented students, and many also have active student support organizations.
Undocumented college students are not eligible for federal financial aid, but some states provide financial aid and loans, and some private schools use institutional aid to support undocumented students. There are also many private scholarships available to undocumented students. Below are a few websites that track scholarships to which undocumented students can apply. Educators should familiarize themselves with these resources so that they can assist college-bound students in financing their college degree.
Schools can help families prepare for all situations by providing information, templates and access to resources to have a plan in case of detention or deportation.
Educators, especially classroom teachers, are trusted sources of information for students and families. Educators can be prepared by knowing where to direct students and parents for pro-bono or low-cost, legitimate legal advice. It’s important for educators to stress that families seek legal advice from an immigration attorney or DOJ-accredited representative and that free legal advice is available throughout the country from a variety of sources.