Schools were sanctuaries for undocumented students until a recent policy change stripped immigrant students of their protection against raids at school. A Biden administration policy decreed schools as “protected areas” from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids and arrests. Under the orders of President Donald Trump, however, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security has retracted these immigration guidelines, and the fate of undocumented students is unknown.
In response to this significant shift, North Texas school districts have begun to prepare their students and parents for various scenarios. According to the Pew Research Center, there are almost one million undocumented immigrants under the age of 18 in the United States, many of whom attend public schools. Equity is theoretically built into the public education system, and all students are legally promised equal learning opportunities regardless of their documentation status.
Several local districts have reaffirmed their dedication to supporting immigrant students and their families. Here are the North Texas school districts that have released statements regarding immigration:
Arlington ISD
“At Arlington ISD, the top priority has always been the safety, well-being and education of every student we serve, regardless of their background, status or circumstances,” Anita Foster, chief communications officer, said in a statement. “That is what Texas public schools, including Arlington ISD, do.”
Carrollton ISD
District superintendent Wendy Eldredge released a statement on the district’s official web page, reaffirming the district’s dedication to providing equal education opportunities.
“Carrollton-Farmers Branch ISD is committed to providing a safe and inclusive learning environment where all students have the opportunity to learn and succeed,” said Eldredge. “Every student, family, employee, and individual in our community is a valued CFB Family member. And I’m proud that we champion the right for all children to have equal access to a public education, regardless of their immigration status.”
Dallas ISD
In light of the changes, DISD launched a webpage restating the district’s devotion to a welcoming and inclusive learning environment for all students.
“We are here to educate all students for success,” reads the new website, quoting the superintendent Stephanie Elizalde. “Not some. We take them all. We embrace them all. We are the Statue of Liberty, and we are proud to take them all."
The DISD site has links to legal assistance organizations, the national immigration services site and other valuable resources for immigrant families. The board of trustees also unanimously approved a resolution to “designate all Dallas ISD schools as welcoming and protective to the fullest extent of the law.”
Denton ISD
Denton ISD chimed in, echoing what other districts have said — that it will continue to welcome all students.
“Denton ISD will continue to provide a safe and engaging learning environment for all students. We have an existing system of supports that are available to students, including counseling services."
Fort Worth ISD
Fort Worth ISD responded to the immigration policy with a press release addressing the primary concerns of parents.
“At Fort Worth ISD, we are deeply committed to fostering schools where every student feels accepted, valued, and supported, regardless of their background or immigration status.”
The statement assured parents that the district would not request documentation. The statement advised parents to update emergency contact information in case they are arrested before picking up their child from school. Counselors and additional assistance are available to students worried about attending school.
Irving ISD
"While the district complies with state and federal laws, we also have an obligation to serve ALL students entrusted to our care, regardless of immigration status," Irving ISD said in a statement. "In fact, adherence to the law further compels Irving ISD to protect and educate all students enrolled in our district to the fullest extent of the law. Our schools, facilities and school-sponsored activities are a safe place for our students.”
