Several school districts in California have informed Fox News Digital that they are not adhering to the state’s new recommendations for managing immigration enforcement. These districts were expecting updates that would come from national guidance due by March 1st, aimed at protecting students from immigration actions.
California’s Attorney General, Rob Bonta, noted that around 133,000 undocumented children are enrolled in K-12 public schools throughout the state, along with many more who have family members without legal status.
In Southern California, the Lakeside Union School District has expressed skepticism about the initiative, suggesting it’s largely political in nature.
Board Member Andrew Hayes emphasized the importance of adhering to federal law, stating, “I refuse to jeopardize our district’s federal funding and those we serve by resisting law enforcement.” He mentioned that it’s inappropriate for educators and staff to oppose federal authorities.
State Superintendent Tony Thurmond has instructed school districts to revise their policies to minimize immigration support in public schools, emphasizing safety and accessibility for all residents, regardless of their immigration status.
In February, Hayes joined others in the state in accusing education officials and teachers’ unions of creating a climate of fear regarding immigration enforcement, particularly in light of rising criticism towards U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) related to violent incidents involving undocumented individuals.
School board members had reacted to remarks from Los Angeles Unified School District Superintendent Alberto Carvalho, who claimed that students might avoid attending classes in the second semester of the 2025-2026 school year due to fears about immigration issues.
In response to concerns raised by school officials, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) clarified that ICE does not target schools for child arrests, insisting their focus is on safeguarding children.
“ICE does not go to schools to arrest children. Our mission is to protect them,” a spokesperson stated. They further added that law enforcement should maintain a level of discretion and practicality in protecting public safety.
In follow-up comments, Hayes described the state’s guidance as exaggerated and politically motivated. “This policy is mere political theater intended to further Governor Newsom’s agenda,” he remarked, asserting that the narrative promoted by some activists aims to sow fear and lower enrollment in order to push for more funding, rather than genuinely addressing educational needs.
The Lakeside school district did not respond to requests regarding Hayes’ statements.
Amid the ongoing pressure from the Trump administration’s immigration policies, certain districts, like the Oceanside Unified School District, have taken steps to enhance security measures and explicitly request that ICE keep away from school properties.
While Oceanside Unified says it adheres to state laws, its approach to campus law enforcement has been in place since before 2020.
As of now, Governor Newsom’s office has not commented on these developments.
