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Published on January 25, 2025
Houston Educators and Advocates Face Challenges Amid Potential ICE Raids in SchoolsSource: Google Street View

As President Donald Trump doubles down on his immigration measures, educators and advocates in Houston are trying to grapple with the implications for students and families. According to KHOU, Houston Federation of Teachers president, Jackie Anderson expressed concerns about the lack of clear directives for teachers in the event of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers arriving on campus. "Are they supposed to go and get the child, are they not supposed to go get the child? Are they supposed to refuse," Anderson questioned, in a climate where many undocumented parents are understandably reluctant to come forward.

Across the nation, schools are bracing for the effects of the Trump administration's policies, which now include the possibility of ICE raids on education facilities. In a press conference, the Congressional Hispanic Caucus criticized the executive orders revoking policies that previously provided some shelter from immigration enforcement in schools and other sensitive locations. "Think about that -- that nothing is off limits, that raids could go and happen in our public schools," Rep. Nydia Velazquez said, according to an ABC News report.

Educational advocacy groups such as IDRA are urging school districts to prepare comprehensive plans, out of concern for potential trauma arising from enforcement activity. "What we desperately need from school leaders at this time is to be really bold and clear," said Morgan Craven, the organization's National Director of Policy, Advocacy, and Community Engagement in an interview with KHOU. Similarly, educators like Karen Reyes, a DACA recipient, worry about the psychological impact this might have on students and families. "I sometimes find myself thinking 'Will my family experience this? Will my students? How will I explain what deportation is if it impacts someone in my classroom?'" Reyes disclosed in a statement obtained by ABC News.

Legal experts are clear that school districts cannot inquire into students' immigration status, or request documents that might unintentionally reveal such information. School districts like Alief ISD acknowledge the sweeping changes and the need to foster a "safe and supportive school environment," a statement obtained by KHOU. Still, many, like Alief, have yet to offer concrete guidance for educators and staff. Meanwhile, lawmakers in immigrant sanctuary cities are stepping up education campaigns to help school districts and communities understand their rights. "Just because ICE comes knocking on the door doesn't mean you have to open it," Texas Rep. Sylvia Garcia told ABC News. Garcia informed that an educational event will be held soon in collaboration with representatives from the Houston Independent School District.

Amid the uncertainty, some districts in California are not waiting to act. San Diego and Fresno unified school districts are proactively communicating support and resources for immigrant families. Fabiola Bagula, interim superintendent of the San Diego Unified School District, emphasized the need to maintain "unwavering care" for students during the board discussion on the district's commitment to being a welcoming space. And, with the reality that ICE raids could disrupt the safety and learning environment in public schools, these districts, and lawmakers are racing against time to mitigate the fallout from the administration's immigration crackdown.