In response to President Donald Trump’s increased deportation operations, school districts around Central Texas are taking steps to protect undocumented immigrant kids and their families from ICE raids. According to FOX 7 Austin, numerous significant public school systems in the area have stated their commitment to providing a safe space for all children, regardless of immigrant status. This response follows reforms announced by the Trump administration, which allow immigration enforcement in previously protected venues such as schools and churches.
Northside Independent School District (NISD), San Antonio’s largest school district, is relying on long-established protocols to manage future ICE actions. A spokeswoman from NISD informed MySA that the district does not plan to conduct additional staff training, as current policies have been in effect since November 2015. If a kid is served with a subpoena or warrant, university administrators must notify his or her parents immediately.
However, amidst increased parental anxiety, some school systems, such as Austin ISD, are constantly monitoring law changes that may affect the “student experience,” as stated on their website. Austin ISD has gone so far as to compile a list of resources for parents and staff to use during these difficult times. Furthermore, Manor ISD has established a system for dealing with law enforcement, including ICE, in which they will verify the agents’ identification and any documents before allowing any action to take place on campus.
Thomas Esparza, an immigration attorney, told FOX 7 Austin that people are not required to report their immigration status. “You do not have to communicate with them,” Esparza stated. “You definitely do not have to tell them your immigration status.” Esparza’s viewpoint reflects a broader perspective shared by the community, which seeks to prevent contacts that could result in “collateral damage.”
While NISD maintains their current strategy, other districts are increasing their preparedness. San Antonio ISD, alarmed by the sight of federal agents on their campus, has engaged staff in strategies to deal with ICE’s probable presence. San Antonio ISD Superintendent Jaime Aquino shared his concerns at a San Antonio Express-News Editorial Board meeting. “I never thought when I became a teacher, this is my 38th year in education, that I would have to become an expert on immigration and immigration law,” Aquino said in front of the board. His remark underscores a new reality for educators, who are now dealing with difficulties much beyond the conventional scope of their work.
The changing landscape of immigration policy under the Trump administration continues to cause stress and uncertainty among school communities. Central Texas school districts are prioritizing their children’s safety and education while simultaneously preparing for potentially intrusive law enforcement measures. The entire impact of these rules on the school experience and community trust has yet to be determined.
