Navigating Policy Changes Related to Schools and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)
April Ferguson, LCSW-C, Senior Practice Associate
February 2025
The beginning of the Trump Administration, started with executive orders that impact school social workers, students and other school personnel. Included in the executive orders were policies related to immigration and deportation. The administration also cancelled a policy that previously limited immigration enforcement in schools. Discussions regarding the education system’s interactions with ICE are not new and were a part of educational conversations with the release of Project 2025. In addition, education personnel have long been a source of support to students impacted by ICE raids that occur outside of schools as well. However, the administration’s choice to change the policy on enforcement in schools brings the conversation back to the forefront of the educational community.
Current school responses to this policy change have varied, with schools developing and providing specific guidance for interactions with ICE. Some schools have advised denying ICE entry into the school building without an appointment of business, others have required approval from the superintendent, and some schools are enacting policies that align with the administration’s stance on immigration enforcement. School social workers should seek guidance from administrators and school districts regarding interactions with government entities. Check school district websites for guidance and any training and resources that are available to school personnel. For example, New York Public Schools, District of Columbia Attorney General Office, and Chicago Public Schools provided guidance on their websites.
School social workers should also utilize trusted resources to stay informed and to support school personnel, students, and their families regarding immigration and the education system. The National Education Association (NEA) Office of General Counsel Guidance on Immigration Issues, provides comprehensive resources, toolkits and guidelines for schools to navigate challenges related to immigration policies including a distinguishment “between an ICE administrative warrant and a traditional federal court warrant” and FERPA compliance. Other resources from the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and local ACLU offices offer guidance to help families understand their rights when interacting with immigration enforcement.
School social workers may find the following resources helpful:
For Educational Personnel
For Students and Families
Related Organizations