LAUSD Distributes ‘Know Your Rights’ Cards to Students

LAUSD distributes 'Know Your Rights' cards to foster awareness among students.

News Summary

In response to mounting concerns over immigration enforcement, the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) is distributing ‘Know Your Rights’ cards to empower students. These cards, available in eight languages, inform students of their constitutional rights when approached by immigration authorities. LAUSD board President Scott Schmerelson emphasized the initiative’s role in reducing anxiety among students about ICE actions. The program aligns with California laws aimed at protecting school environments from enforcement activities, reaffirming the district’s commitment to safeguarding all students.

Los Angeles – In response to increasing concerns about immigration enforcement, the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) has announced the distribution of “Know Your Rights” cards to its students. This move aims to address heightened stress levels among students regarding potential U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) actions within their communities.

LAUSD board President Scott Schmerelson underscored the emotional impact of ICE arrests, articulating that many students fear for their family members’ safety when they leave for school. The initiative seeks to empower students and ensure their protection in the event they encounter immigration authorities.

The “Know Your Rights” cards will educate students on their constitutional rights, highlighting that they have the right to remain silent and can refuse entry to their homes if approached by ICE agents. Furthermore, the National Immigration Law Center (NILC) suggests that students refrain from opening their doors to ICE and seek legal advice before signing any documents. The distribution of these cards is optional, allowing students to choose whether to participate.

The cards will be available in eight languages, including English, Arabic, Chinese, Haitian Creole, Korean, Tagalog, Vietnamese, and Spanish, ensuring accessibility for a diverse student body. Schmerelson reaffirmed that all children, regardless of their immigration status, deserve access to quality education.

The initiative aligns with California laws such as the California Values Act (Senate Bill 54) and Assembly Bill 699, which limit school personnel’s ability to aid ICE enforcement actions without a court order. LAUSD’s commitment to protecting its students has been evident, as the district has previously denied ICE agents entry to its schools during alleged “wellness checks” on students.

In a recent address, Los Angeles Unified Superintendent Alberto Carvalho also highlighted the challenges posed by immigration raids. As an immigrant himself, he emphasized the significance of standing against injustice and fostering a secure learning environment for all students. Carvalho has articulated that the district will take all necessary measures to protect students’ safety and welfare.

Recent reports have indicated that federal agents attempt to access LAUSD schools under the guise of wellness checks. Such incidents have raised alarm among parents and community members regarding the safety of students within school grounds. The district’s history of refusing ICE entry underscores its dedication to maintaining a safe educational environment.

Alongside these immigration-related safety measures, LAUSD is prioritizing broader safety initiatives for the upcoming school year, particularly in response to recent wildfires affecting Southern California. The district has been enhancing its infrastructure to better cope with climate challenges, including the installation of air quality sensors in schools.

Carvalho has asserted that the district’s objective is not only to ensure safety but also to achieve excellence in education. LAUSD has seen notable progress in student performance, with double-digit gains in assessments when compared to previous years. New initiatives such as the iMatter Mental Health Campaign and expanded dual language programs exemplify the district’s commitment to holistic student development.

In addition, LAUSD is dedicated to increasing mental health resources and fostering support for LGBTQ+ education, demonstrating a commitment to nurturing all aspects of student welfare. Carvalho has praised the efforts of school staff who play a crucial role in safeguarding students and responding effectively during critical situations.

As the school year approaches, LAUSD is focused on ensuring a supportive and safe atmosphere for its diverse student population. The distribution of “Know Your Rights” cards is just one step towards alleviating anxiety around immigration enforcement and reinforcing the district’s commitment to educational equity.