Los Angeles County Immigration

California State PTA Statement January 27, 2025

 

As we start the new year, we are reminded that as California State PTA, we are united in supporting all children and families.

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• Our members represent the great diversity of California.

• We speak many languages.

• We celebrate many cultures and religions.

• We may call ourselves liberals or conservatives.

 

As PTA members, we believe that whatever the background of a child and family, we are united in improving their health, welfare, and education.

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​​​California State PTA first took a position on the Rights and Services for Undocumented Children and Children of Undocumented Immigrants in 1994. Since then, PTA has consistently defended the right of every child to a “quality public education, adequate food and shelter, and basic health services.” Our position statement affirms that schools are meant to be safe spaces where children can learn and grow without fear. Likewise, schools must be safe places for families to support their children’s education.

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​It is in the interest of all Californians to ensure that all children can reach their full potential and become productive members of society. Access to free public education is the most effective method of securing this opportunity and should not be denied to any child.

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In recent guidance to schools, the California Attorney General underscores that both federal and state law support these PTA beliefs. The law says that “schools must provide free public education to all students regardless of their immigration status and regardless of the citizenship status of the student’s parents or guardians.” 

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We know that many of our communities fear and are anxious about the future of our children and families. Because of concerns for their safety and well-being, we are sending guidance to the hundreds of thousands of PTA members in California. We aim to help you understand student and family rights and identify where help is available if needed. 

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Please share with your PTA members:

Guidance

• Know Your Immigration Rights (English | Spanish | Chinese | Korean | Tagalog | Vietnamese)

• Know Your Educational Rights: Guide for Students and Families (English | Spanish)

• Immigration and California Families (Español | 한국어 | Tagalog | Tiếng Việt | 繁體中文)

• Promoting a Safe and Secure Learning Environment for All

• California Department of Education: Resources to Support in the Case of Immigration Enforcement on School Campuses

• California Department of Education: WHAT TO DO if an Immigration Enforcement Officer Comes to Your School​​​