How Schools Can Navigate Federal Policy Changes and Support Their Communities

As a mother of three young children, I am deeply concerned about recent changes to federal policy that have shaken the foundation of trust in our schools and communities. The reversal of long-standing guidelines that once protected schools, churches, and other sensitive locations from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) actions threatens to upend the sense of safety that every child and family deserves.

For decades, schools have been more than just places of learning—they’ve been sanctuaries. They are spaces where students can focus on their education without fear of external threats, where parents feel confident that their children are safe, and where teachers and administrators work tirelessly to build trust and community. This policy change, allowing ICE to conduct enforcement actions in sensitive locations, risks dismantling this trust, particularly for students and families from immigrant backgrounds.

As a communications specialist and a parent, I know how critical it is for school leaders to take proactive steps during this time to protect their communities. The stakes couldn’t be higher. This is about more than policy—it’s about the safety and well-being of our children and ensuring that schools remain safe spaces for all.

During this uncertain time, schools and districts must be proactive by working with the legal team to develop an effective communication strategy and equip staff with the resources to communicate this issue.

By proactively providing resources, schools, and districts can:

• Demonstrate Leadership: Show their commitment to ensure their schools are

  welcoming and safe spaces by creating policies that protect all students.

• Reduce Fear and Uncertainty: Reassure families that schools are safe spaces focused

  on education, not enforcement.

• Strengthen Community Trust: Build stronger relationships with families through

  transparent and supportive communication.

We understand this situation is uncharted territory, and schools and districts may need resources and guidance to help. That is why we developed the Safe and Welcoming Schools Resource Guide. This toolkit is designed to help school districts reaffirm their commitment to ensuring all students learn in safe environments free from fear, regardless of their immigration status.

Download the Safe and Welcoming Schools Resource Guide to get started now. Share this resource with your networks, and don’t hesitate to reach out if we can support you further.