As the new school year begins, we want to help parents feel confident, organized, and reassured that their children can start the year safe and supported.<\/p>\n
Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is not allowed on school property unless they present a judicial warrant signed by a judge. Schools are considered \u201csensitive locations,\u201d meaning enforcement actions generally do not take place there. This includes classrooms, school buses, and school events. Knowing this can help ease fears and allow your children to focus on learning and making friends.<\/p>\n
All children\u2014regardless of immigration status\u2014have the right to attend school. Schools cannot ask about a child\u2019s or family\u2019s immigration status as a condition for enrollment.<\/p>\n
If ICE were ever to come to a school, they cannot speak to a student alone\u2014an adult must be present. We encourage families to review the “What to Do if ICE Comes to Your School” pamphlet ([insert link here]) so both parents and children know exactly what to expect.<\/p>\n
Life can be unpredictable. For parents with children under 18, it\u2019s wise to prepare legal documents such as a Power of Attorney or Standby Guardianship form. These allow you to choose a trusted adult to step in and care for your children temporarily if you are unable to do so because of illness, detention, or another emergency.<\/p>\n
Keep a copy of this form somewhere safe and make sure both the guardian and your children\u2019s school have a copy. Attached is a copy of the Standby Guardianship form for the state of Oklahoma. These forms are valid for a year once notarized. (add attachment)<\/p>\n
In addition to legal paperwork, practice an emergency phone number with your children\u2014a number they can call if they ever feel unsafe or cannot reach you. Make sure they know the full name of the person who will answer and how to explain their situation calmly.<\/p>\n
Make sure your phone number, address, and emergency contacts are up to date with the school.<\/p>\n
Provide the name and contact information of your Standby Guardian to the school office.<\/p>\n
Ask your school how they communicate urgent information\u2014whether by phone, email, text message, or school app\u2014so you never miss important updates.<\/p>\n
If English is not your first language, let the school know your preferred language for communication. Schools are required to provide interpretation and translation for important matters.<\/p>\n
Most schools have a school counselor. Get to know them so you can reach out with specific concerns.<\/p>\n
We know that fear can sometimes make parents hesitant to send their children to school. However, it\u2019s important to remember that keeping children home without a valid reason can lead to truancy court and unnecessary legal trouble. Attending school regularly not only supports your child\u2019s learning and friendships, but also protects your family from avoidable court issues.<\/p>\n
Even outside of school, you and your children have rights. If approached by immigration officials, you have the right to remain silent and to speak with a lawyer before answering questions or signing anything. Teach your children not to open the door to strangers and to contact a trusted adult if they feel unsafe.<\/p>\n
At Rivas and Associates, we are here to help families prepare for any situation. If you live in Oklahoma, we can provide free Standby Guardianship forms and guide you through completing them. Our goal is to make sure your children are cared for and protected\u2014no matter what happens.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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