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This message is in response to recent inquiries from our NMUSD families. 

Newport-Mesa Unified School District (NMUSD) is committed to the safety and education of all students, regardless of religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, country of origin, or a student’s immigration status (Board Policy 0410: Nondiscrimination In District Programs And Activities). We appreciate and value the diversity throughout our district and the unique perspectives and experiences that our staff and families bring to NMUSD. We strive to ensure that all students are seen, heard, supported and safe.

We would like to share some important facts and resources below. Undocumented students have a right to attend school in California. No state may deny access to a basic public education to any child residing within the state, whether residing in the U.S. legally or not (Plyler v. Doe, 457 U.S. 202 (1982). Further, all students have a right to be in a public school learning environment free from discrimination, harassment, bullying, violence, and intimidation. (Educ. Code §§ 220, 234 et seq.) 

Please note: This does not constitute legal advice or guidance

Current Immigration Law and Protections for Students

Federal and California laws guarantee that all children, regardless of immigration status, have the right to a free public education (Plyler v. Doe, 1982). In California, additional protections, such as those under Assembly Bill 699, ensure that schools:

  1. Do Not Discriminate: All students, including those who are undocumented or come from immigrant families, have the right to attend public school, participate in school activities, and receive a quality education without discrimination.
     
  2. Provide a Safe School Environment: Schools are generally prohibited from granting access to campus by immigration enforcement officers in the absence of a judicial warrant or court order. All subpoenas, court orders, and warrants will be processed through the Office of Student Services. Schools are prohibited from requesting social security numbers or inquiring about the citizenship or immigration status of students or their parents or guardians unless explicitly required by law.
     
  3. Maintain Confidentiality of Student Information: Schools must protect the privacy of students. Schools are prohibited from sharing personal information about students or their family members for immigration-enforcement purposes without a court order or judicial subpoena. Our district policies reflect these commitments, including Board Policy 5145.13, which safeguards student rights and guides how to handle immigration-related concerns.

NMUSD is committed to complying with all applicable laws while serving as a reliable resource for our families

Support for Students and Families

Immigration policies may affect some students’ sense of safety and well-being. Our counselors and student support staff can make themselves available to provide a safe space for students to express their feelings, process their experiences, and access the care they may need, with parental consent.

If families have questions about how these laws apply to them, please note that the district cannot provide legal advice or guidance.

Resources

Please visit the NMUSD Immigration Resources Webpage for additional information, resources, and frequently asked questions.

Thank you for working alongside us to lift up our students and help ensure that NMUSD is a welcoming place for all.