Q: How will the President’s recent executive orders on immigration affect my child or my family if we do not have lawful immigration status?
A: The effect of these executive orders may vary based on federal enforcement policies and legal rulings. For accurate guidance, consult an immigration attorney.
Q: How does my child’s immigration status or my immigration status affect my child’s ability to attend school?
A: Under federal law, all children, regardless of immigration status, have the right to a free public education at the primary and secondary levels. Schools cannot deny enrollment or access to educational opportunities based on a child’s or parent’s immigration status. This right is protected under the U.S. Constitution and Supreme Court precedent (Plyler v. Doe, 1982). For more details, visit the U.S. Department of Education’s website.
Q: How does the Waterloo Community School District (WCSD) ensure that no student or family is discriminated against or harassed because of their race, ethnicity, religion, or national origin?
A: Under FERPA, WCSD protects the confidentiality of student educational records, including information related to immigration status. These records are not shared with federal immigration officials for enforcement purposes unless required by a lawful subpoena or court order.
Q: What should I do if I feel like I have been the victim of discrimination or harassment?
A: Individuals who feel like they have been the victim of discrimination or harassment should follow the guidance and procedures established by the WCSD and should report the incident to a school official. Non-students should report to Sam Kreassig, Interim Director of Human Resources. Students should report to Sheena Canady, Director of Student and At-Risk Services. Also, questions may be directed to Gina Weekley, Director of Equity, Inclusion & Belonging.
Q: Can Waterloo Schools ask about a child’s immigration status?
A: No, the WCSD may not question a child about his or her immigration status or demand to see proof of legal immigration status.
Q: Does a child need a social security number to be enrolled in the Waterloo Schools?
A: A child does NOT need a social security number to be enrolled in the Waterloo Schools
Q: Could the WCSD ever share our child’s immigration status with the federal immigration officials?
A: No, the WCSD will not share students’ immigration status with federal immigration officials for the purpose of enforcement of the immigration law. Individual students’ educational records are protected by the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). The WCSD policy on Student Records Access.
Q: Will my child lose eligibility to ride the bus to school, for free or reduced-priced lunch, for special education services, for ELL, etc.?
A: No. A child’s immigration status has no effect on the child’s eligibility to ride the bus to school. Iowa law requires that the WCSD provides transportation to all resident pupils attending school, with limited exceptions. A child’s immigration status similarly has no effect on the child’s eligibility for free or reduced-price lunch, eligibility for English Language Learning help, or eligibility for special education services.
Q: What will happen to my child if he or she has DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals)?
A: The status of the DACA program may change due to executive or judicial action. Families with DACA students are advised to consult with an immigration attorney for the latest updates and to explore additional legal options.
Q: Where can I learn more about my immigration rights or immigration issues?
A: To protect your rights, rely only on advice from licensed attorneys or accredited representatives with verified expertise in immigration law. Avoid relying on unverified sources or unauthorized individuals offering immigration services. You can search for attorneys licensed in Iowa or find an immigration attorneys through American Immigration Lawyers Association.
