Immigrant communities across the U.S. are on high alert following recent reports that the Trump administration has authorized U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to conduct raids in previously protected locations such as schools, hospitals, and places of worship. This shift in policy removes protections that once kept undocumented students and their families safe from enforcement actions in school settings. As a result, many fear that this change could have long-term effects on students and their education.
Although ICE can come into schools, they are subject to legal limitations. ICE agents are only allowed into private locations such as a school with a valid judicial warrant signed by a U.S. magistrate judge. However, the warrant must have a name on it and if the warrant is signed by an ICE agent, it is not valid, therefore an ICE agent cannot arrest you. In addition, large-scale questioning of students would require multiple approvals from school administration. So, while it is possible, it is an unlikely scenario.
PGCPS schools do not track or disclose a student’s immigration status, nor do they have an obligation to report to federal immigration authorities. The primary responsibility for schools is to provide education to all students no matter what. State policies prioritize student safety and access to education. In a statement released by PGCPS Superintendent Millard House II on January 29, 2025, Superintendent Millard reassured that the “PGCPS Immigration Task Force continues to provide rapid response guidance to principals and staff, ensuring strict protocols are in place to prevent unauthorized access to our schools.” In addition, ERHS teachers engaged in a staff meeting regarding the immigration crisis and were instructed to encourage students to continue coming to school.
For those who are detained by ICE, it does not mean immediate deportation. Deportation is a legal process that takes time, and individuals may have the opportunity to appear before a judge in immigration court. However, in certain cases, a “noncitizen is subjected to expedited removal without being able to attend a hearing in court” as reported by USA.Gov. If ICE does detain someone, they can issue an immigration detainer in which law enforcement can hold a person in custody for up to 48 hours after their ordinary release time, giving ICE time to take them into federal custody for possible deportation. Situations vary based on certain circumstances, therefore, it’s important for undocumented families to know their rights.
If approached by ICE or law enforcement, individuals have the right to remain silent and can verbally state their refusal to answer questions. If ICE or police officers attempt to enter a home, they must present a judicial warrant. Additionally, a search cannot be conducted without consent, but officials may pat an individual down if they suspect a weapon. Those detained under law enforcement have the right to contact a family member, friend, or lawyer as soon as possible. Law enforcement cannot listen in on calls with legal representatives.
For immigrant students and those with immigrant parents or friends, the recent policy changes have affected their daily lives. Roosevelt teachers recognize the impact of such policies and are there to support students along the way. Ms Francesca Minisola is a long-time educator, and currently the only Italian teacher here at Roosevelt. Originally from Italy, she explored and taught in Ethiopia before settling in the U.S. with her family. Ms. Minisola observed noticeable changes almost immediately. “Especially in the first two weeks of this new administration, the classrooms were a little emptier than usual…” she noted. “In general, the air we’re breathing around is not as light and delicate.” Ms Anne Zhu teaches ELD (English Language Development), a program designed to support students whose first language is not English. She taught in a college near Hong Kong before moving to the U.S. to continue her career, and has been a PGCPS educator for over 23 years. For her, she noticed the shift in behavior during the first week of ACCESS tests for her students. “A few of them were very distracted by the news and were very sad during the standardized tests,” she recalls. “It was distracting. I admire their resilience
Despite these challenges, both teachers encourage students to take care of themselves and focus on their future. Ms. Minisola emphasizes the importance of mental health and staying informed. “Mindfulness is being promoted and pushed so much for a good reason, because it does work,” she expressed. “Again, absolutely research, read, and inform yourself as much as possible. Always remember there are resources.” Ms. Zhu shares a similar sentiment, encouraging students, in specific, her ELD students, to move forward. “As long as you work hard, maintain integrity, good academic record, and learn how to speak English fluently you will be respected and promising everywhere you go in the world.” She believes that “Each day is a blessing in the care of the ERHS community.” As immigration policies continue to shift, staying informed and knowing one’s rights remains essential.
