The work of schools is to teach children. Yet schools do not operate in a vacuum. They reflect what is happening around them. And in many communities, immigrant families are living in fear, not knowing whether they will be able to remain in the country from day-to-day.

Teachers and counselors reported students weepy or disengaged. In some communities, student attendance dropped off with parents afraid to even bring their children to school. 

In my work with diverse schools around the country, I’ve seen an impact that extends far beyond the students who may not have documentation . Even if a student was born in the United States, one or both parents might not have documentation. Even if both parents are legal residents, a close relative or friend is often concerned about immigration status. Even families with legal documentation are fearful of visiting family outside the United States, concerned that reentry requirements are in flux. And in our multicultural communities, even a student whose family dates back generations likely has friends with immigration concerns.

Schools can have an impact on students and their families today by taking intentional action: