Fresno Unified Pledges Schools as Safe Spaces Amid Immigration Crackdown

Key Takeaways

• Fresno Unified designated itself a “safe place” on January 30, 2025, opposing federal policies allowing ICE operations in schools.
• The district won’t collect or share students’ immigration statuses and has set strict procedures for handling immigration enforcement.
• Upcoming “Know Your Rights” workshops include sessions at Erickson Elementary (Feb 19), Lawless Elementary (Feb 18), and Duncan High (Feb 27).

Fresno Unified School District has made a firm commitment to protect its students from immigration enforcement actions, regardless of their immigration or citizenship status. On January 30, 2025, the district’s board of trustees passed a resolution identifying Fresno Unified as a “safe place” for students and families who feel threatened by immigration enforcement. This declaration comes in response to significant recent changes in federal immigration policies.

In early 2025, President Donald Trump issued an executive order allowing Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to operate in schools, churches, and hospitals. This decision reversed a long-standing policy from 2011 that had prohibited such practices. Additionally, the passage of the Laken Riley Act by Congress makes it easier for federal agents to deport undocumented individuals charged with minor offenses. These sweeping changes have increased fears within immigrant communities across the country. Fresno Unified’s updated policies stand in direct opposition to these new federal measures.

Fresno Unified Pledges Schools as Safe Spaces Amid Immigration Crackdown

The district made it clear that it will not collect or share information about a student’s immigration status. Furthermore, it pledged not to assist immigration enforcement at schools unless legally mandated by state or federal law. These principles are reflected in Fresno Unified’s Board Policy 5145.13 and Administrative Regulation 5145.13. These rules are designed to ensure that schools remain a safe and welcoming environment for all students, regardless of their legal status.

As part of its efforts to empower and educate the community, Fresno Unified has been working closely with the Education and Leadership Foundation to organize “Know Your Rights” workshops. These workshops aim to provide families with essential information about their legal rights, how to respond calmly during encounters with immigration officials, and steps to take to safeguard their households. On February 6, 2025, Sequoia Middle School hosted one such workshop, and more are planned throughout February. Upcoming events include sessions at Erickson Elementary School on February 19, Lawless Elementary School on February 18, and Duncan High School on February 27. These events have been instrumental in addressing fears and giving families practical tools to navigate current challenges.

In light of the current climate, Fresno Unified is also addressing the emotional toll these matters take on students and families. Through a partnership with Fresno County’s All-4-Youth program, students and families have access to mental health support directly on school campuses. Tammy Frates, the senior director of All-4-Youth, stated that the program is available to any family experiencing stress, including immigration-related concerns. This initiative ensures that families receive critical support during what can be a deeply distressing time.

California Attorney General Rob Bonta also provided important guidance for school districts earlier this year, on January 7, 2025. He emphasized three key rights for immigrant students and families: the right to access a free public education, limitations on what information districts can require for school enrollment, and strict rules about keeping personal information confidential. His office has been preparing for these challenges as federal immigration policies shift. Fresno Unified is aligning its actions with this guidance to ensure its students feel secure.

This is not the district’s first time taking a strong stand. In January 2025, Fresno Unified reiterated its 2018 commitment to supporting undocumented students. The continuity of these efforts highlights Fresno Unified’s ongoing dedication to providing a safe and inclusive environment for all learners.

Other districts in the region have shown solidarity as well. Central Unified School District reaffirmed its own policies during a January 14, 2025, meeting, voting unanimously to uphold its stance that every child is entitled to an education, irrespective of their immigration status or that of their parents. Clovis Unified, meanwhile, avoided formal resolutions but assured families that it continues its longstanding practice of welcoming students from all backgrounds.

The practical impact of these policies cannot be overstated. By refusing to document students’ immigration statuses, Fresno Unified ensures that it cannot be forced to provide such information to federal agencies. The district has also established protocols for handling situations in which immigration agents are near or on school grounds. Preventing disruptions to student safety and learning remains a priority.

However, recent events illustrate just how critical these efforts are. Earlier this year, Border Patrol conducted raids in Kern County, which led to a drop in student attendance in some Fresno Unified schools. While attendance across the district as a whole was unaffected, the losses in certain areas highlight the real fears immigrant families face. In response, Fresno Unified is doubling down on outreach to reassure families and maintain trust.

Looking ahead, the district continues to plan resources and programs in anticipation of potential future challenges. On February 27, 2025, Fresno Unified will host an immigration workshop at Vinland Elementary School from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM. This event is just one in a series designed to help families prepare for possible scenarios, including mass deportations.

Technology also plays a crucial role in expanding support. Fresno Unified is offering virtual “Know Your Rights” workshops, allowing parents to join sessions online from wherever they are most comfortable. Parents benefit from having the ability to replay sessions afterward, ensuring that all necessary information is retained. This flexibility makes it easier for families with transportation or scheduling barriers to access resources.

The district is also taking significant steps to support newcomer students—those who have recently arrived in the U.S. and are navigating an unfamiliar education system. Fresno Unified’s English Learner Services department, backed by funding through a CalNEW grant, ensures these students get help with language development and adapting to their new environment. This is particularly vital for undocumented students who may already face unique hurdles.

Finally, Fresno Unified has established a Social Emotional Support Referral program. It allows students, parents, or staff members to report any concerns about emotional or social issues discreetly. The program is monitored by the Department of Prevention and Intervention, ensuring affected students receive timely help. This initiative reflects the district’s understanding that immigration-related anxiety extends beyond classrooms and can profoundly impact a child’s overall well-being.

Fresno Unified’s comprehensive measures to protect students and families from immigration enforcement set an important example for other districts. By creating policies that safeguard personal information, organizing educational workshops, offering mental health support, and maintaining partnerships with local organizations, the district is providing stability to immigrant families during a time of uncertainty. These actions reflect Fresno Unified’s unwavering commitment to ensuring that every child—regardless of immigration status—has access to a safe and supportive education.

As more guidance and updates arise from officials like California’s Attorney General or other advocacy groups, Fresno Unified is likely to continue adapting to meet the needs of its diverse student body. The district’s efforts offer a blueprint for educational systems navigating similar challenges across the country. For families seeking details about education and rights, Fresno Unified’s strong communication strategy, including resources such as online workshops, ensures they are never left uninformed. Readers can access more information about federal rules for immigrant students through the official U.S. Department of Education’s website (https://www2.ed.gov).

Learn Today

Immigration Enforcement → Actions taken by government agencies to identify, detain, and remove individuals violating immigration laws.
Executive Order → A directive issued by the U.S. President that manages operations of the federal government and has the force of law.
Undocumented Individuals → People residing in a country without legal authorization or proper immigration documentation.
“Know Your Rights” Workshops → Educational sessions teaching individuals about legal protections and how to handle encounters with immigration officials.
Social Emotional Support Referral → A program allowing individuals to discreetly report concerns about emotional or social well-being for timely assistance.

This Article in a Nutshell

Fresno Unified boldly declares itself a “safe place” amid shifting federal immigration policies. Defying fear, the district shields students, refusing to share immigration statuses and hosting “Know Your Rights” workshops. Paired with mental health support and newcomer assistance, Fresno Unified leads by example, ensuring every child feels secure, included, and supported in school.
— By VisaVerge.com