Educators rally against student deportation fears

As the Trump administration prepares for mass deportations, K-12 schools across the U.S. are taking steps to protect undocumented students and their families. Administrators and teachers’ unions are fostering relationships and providing resources to help those without legal status. Todd Quarnberg, principal of Herriman High School, expressed concern, stating: “he’s scaring the living hell out of a lot of kids who are just here trying to make it.” With hundreds of thousands of undocumented students in public schools, many fear the impact of potential ICE raids. School officials emphasize that student immigration status is protected under federal law, and they cannot disclose this information without consent. However, increased anxiety and fear have led to higher absenteeism rates among undocumented students, as noted by Viridiana Carrizales, co-founder of ImmSchools. The American Federation of Teachers is also updating resources to support schools in navigating these challenges.