DDOE releases new guidance to schools on immigration, student rights

On February 6, 2025By Littum

Education Secretary Cindy Marten launched one New web page With guidance related to concerns with immigration action in Delaware schools.

These resources released Wednesday afternoon are aimed at any teacher or family who looks at uncertainty as President Donald Trump’s administration seems to be cracking down on immigration in the United States, especially among men, women and families who were illegally coming to the country.

The Covers information About immigrant students’ rights available to schools and educators, recommended action steps for Delaware schools as well as links to other state and national resources advertised by the department. It comes in collaboration with government manager Matt Meyer and Delawares Department of Justice, who also released guidance tailored to individuals and private companies on January 29.

Any action from the Department of Homeland Security Immigration and Customs Enforcement or Ice in a Delaware School seems unlikely. The Trump Administration’s decision to end a policy in “sensitive rankings” more than a decade old – allows such arrests in schools, churches and hospitals – quickly triggered fear.

“Here in Delaware, families and students live in a constant state of fear, concerned that they may be next,” Marten said in A video sent by the Department of Education. “But we are not politicians. We are teachers.”

Delaware teachers have enough challenges to tackle, she said, without the students facing distraction, confusion and fear that their family members could “be removed at any time.”

In a moment, “Delaware Immigrant Student Guidance” shared obligations to:

Safe and inclusive learning environments for all students.
Students’ privacy and prevention of unnecessary disturbances caused by immigration enforcement.
Advice and support offers to help students and families navigate this difficult time.

Here are some highlights from the instructions with More available to explore online.

What are some important immigrant students’ rights in Delaware?

Equal access: All children have the right to equal access to public education at elementary and secondary level.
Non-Difference: Discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin or immigration status is constitutional and against state and federal law.
No queries on immigration status: Students should never be asked to provide proof of their immigration status during enrollment or afterwards.
Fair enrollment processes: Districts and Chartre are prohibited from using criteria or administrative processes that result in discrimination or create barriers to education.
Flexible documentation requirements: A public school can accept alternative proof of a student’s age instead of a birth certificate. If a district or charter school requests a social security number, it must inform the individual that the disclosure is voluntary.

What are some immediate ‘action steps’ for schools?

School systems may consider strengthening district and charter policies:

By passing a decision confirming a district and charter obligation to student privacy and protection.
Give clear guidance to staff for handling immigration enforcement requests.
Make sure all school staff understands that they cannot pass on a student’s immigration status without proper consent or legal permission.
Provide guidance on requesting enforcement of immigration

What if immigration agents request access or information about a student or employee?

Do not attempt to accept or deny the request – Refer to it immediately to the superintendent or charter leader for legal review.
Employees are not allowed to determine if an alleged threat is “imminent.” If ICE claims an impending threat, the Superintendent’s office should give a quick reaction.
Work on law enforcement To minimize disruptions on campus and notify Superintendent’s office. Update school security plans To explain potential disturbances in society.

Took staff and support students:

DDOE said it’s Distribution of state and federal guides to all state school leaders to share with students, families and staff while Education is also available.
Schools should educate the staff to recognize the difference between a legal order (required for ICE to enter the school’s property) and an administrative ice cream guarantee (which does not give them access).
Share guidance with regulators, Front Office staff, advisors, nurses and connections to help with student registration.

Offer resources and emotional support:

Schools must deliver Resources in multiple languages on legal assistance, mental health care and immigrant rights.
Help families with quick access to prints to ensure continued education if relocation is needed.
Offer flexibility in class work for students affected by family separation.
Provide peer support groups and advice to students experiencing anxiety.

Indtil videre kan specifikke meddelelser på DDOE-siden også findes fra: Academia Antonia Alonso Charter School, Appoquinimink Schools, Aspira Charter School, Brandywine Schools, Delaware Charter School Network, Indian River Schools, New Castle County Vocational-Technical School District, Red, Red Clay Schools, Smyrna Schools and Sussex Montessori School.

Do you have a story? Contact Kelly Powers at [email protected].