Supporting Immigrant Students and Families in New York Schools

As School Social Workers, you should be aware that the State of New York has taken a strong position in supporting the safety of students in New York schools by providing the following resources:

New York State Guidance on Safeguarding the Rights of Immigrant Students   This important document provides information and guidance for school districts including access to students, protecting student information, law enforcement detention and the role of the SRO regarding undocumented students' and their rights, among other things. 

Source:  1/2025   NYSED, Office of the NY State Attorney General and Office of the NY Governor

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Photo Credit: Barbara Zandova-Unsplash

New York Immigration Resources:  
"Know Your Rights, Know Your Resources"

"The New York Office of New Americans assists immigrants in accessing and navigating free services and supports through its statewide network of community-based providers."

NY Attorney General's Immigration Services Fraud 
This site provides information about immigrant rights and options so that immigrants are not victims of fraud and misrepresentation/misinformation during any immigration proceedings.  

"For resources for students experiencing homelessness, visit New York State Office of Children and Family Services, Runaway and Homeless Youth."

"For resources for students and adults who experience discrimination based upon race, color, national origin, gender, religion, age, disability, sexual orientation, or other protected classifications, visit the New York State Division of Human Rights. " (Where to file a "complaint" if rights are violated.)
Photo Credit: ICE

SSWAA's Response

SSWAA's Commitment to Supporting Students and Families Amid Policy Changes

SSWAA recognizes the critical role that School Social Workers play addressing the "profound impact of recent policy changes on the students, families, and communities we serve."

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Protecting Safe Spaces for Students: SSWAA's Response to Executive Order

"The School Social Work Association of America (SSWAA) and the SSWAA Practitioners of Color Advisory Committee stand firmly against removing schools and other child-centered areas as designated safe spaces for children and their families."

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Photo Credit: Linkedin Sales Solutions

NYC Response:

Amid confusion over shifting ICE guidance, NYC schools offers first direct communication to families

New York City Chancellor Melisssa Aviles-Ramos, the head of the nation’s largest school system, distributed a letter to families emphasizing that: "the Education Department’s policies have not changed, that schools do not collect information about students’ immigration status, and that federal immigration officials are not allowed to access schools without a valid legal order."

Source: Alex Zimmerman, Alex & Elsen-Rooney, Michael. 2/12/2025. Chalkbeat: NewYork   Photo Credit:  Michael Appleton / Mayoral Photography Office

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The presence of these links does not constitute official NYSSSWA approval or endorsement. Rather, they are presented as a courtesy in the spirit of academic freedom. Please validate your facts and use good judgment as you surf these sites.