Rio Tierra Junior High School - Safe Haven Schools

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Drawing of various diverse students in front of a school

On January 21, 2025, the Department of Homeland Security (“DHS”) announced that it was rescinding a Biden-era policy preventing immigration enforcement actions at “sensitive locations,” including schools. The impact of this policy change is to remove limitations on enforcement at such sites. State laws still direct local educational agency governing boards to adopt policies that limit classroom interruptions. [Education Code §32212.]

What rights do immigrant students and families have in our schools?

All students who live within the district’s attendance boundaries may enroll in their local public school – immigration status does not change that, and this latest policy does not change that. In addition, California schools are not allowed to request or collect information about Social Security numbers, immigration status or U.S. citizenship when enrolling students. Students and parents do not have to answer questions from schools about their immigration status, citizenship or whether they have a Social Security number.

Can a student's immigration status affect their eligibility for district services or programs?

A student's immigration status does not affect their eligibility for any school services or programs. All students have equal access to educational opportunities, including free or reduced-price meals, transportation, and extracurricular activities.

What happens if immigration officials request access to student and/or school records?

The federal Family Education Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA) requires that schools withhold information that could identify students to third parties, including federal immigration officials. Furthermore, FERPA prohibits schools from disclosing personally identifiable information in a student’s education records without parental consent or a subpoena.

The California Department of Education FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act) Summary Page

A Parent Guide to FERPA

Can ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) enter a school campus?

Under California’s AB 699, immigration enforcement agencies cannot enter school grounds without a signed judicial warrant and prior approval from the district superintendent or legal counsel.

"Red Cards for rights"

All people in the United States, regardless of immigration status, have certain rights and protections under the U.S. Consitution. These "red cards" can help people assert their rights. You can print your own by clicking the links below or you can pick one up at our school office.