Dear JESD Families,

Recent federal policy changes have raised concerns for many students and families, particularly those affected by immigration status. At Jefferson Elementary School District, we want to reaffirm our unwavering commitment to supporting each and every child and their family in our community.

Our Commitment to Students and Families
Every student has the right to a free public education in a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment where they can learn, grow, and thrive. We uphold the rights and dignity of all students, regardless of immigration status or background. Our policies and practices reflect this commitment:

1. Federal and State Protections

○ Free Public Education: Under federal law (Plyler v. Doe, 1982) and California’s Assembly Bill 699, all children have the right to a free public education, regardless of immigration status.
○ Safe School Environment: Schools cannot allow immigration enforcement officers on campus without a valid judicial warrant or court order. 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.
○ Privacy Protections: Schools must maintain confidentiality and cannot share student or family information for immigration enforcement purposes without a court order or judicial subpoena.

2. JESD Policies

○ Board Policy 5145.13: Response to Immigration Enforcement: Safeguards student rights and ensures staff are trained to address immigration-related concern
○ Resolution 2024-12-18B: On December 18, 2024, the JESD Board approved the JESD Principles in Support of a Safe and Welcoming Environment for our Students, Families, Staff and Community Members without Regard to Ethnicity, National Origin, Race, Religion, Sexual Orientation, Ability, Gender, Socio-Economic, or Immigration Status.
○ Board Policy 5131.2: Bullying: Bullying of any kind has no place in our schools. We take this issue seriously and are dedicated to preventing and addressing it promptly whenever it arises and to ensure that every concern is handled with care and fairness.

3. Support Services
Our counselors and student support staff are available to provide a safe space for students to process their feelings, access resources, and receive care.

Families should know that JESD does not collect sensitive information, such as social security numbers, legal residency, or immigration status. An affidavit is sufficient to confirm a student's identity and age.

JESD does not collaborate with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to the fullest extent allowed by law. Our schools are centers of learning, safety, and opportunity for all, and we remain committed to maintaining welcoming spaces for every family.

Resources for Immigrant Communities
We encourage families to utilize the following resources:
● Rapid Response Hotline: If ICE comes to your home, work, or neighborhood, or if there are ICE raids nearby, call the San Mateo County Rapid Response Hotline at 203-666-4472 (203 NO-MIGRA). You can also get posters and pocket cards with this number.
● Family Preparedness Plan: A guide to help families prepare for emergencies.
● Know Your Rights: Important information about your Constitutional rights.
● Legal Services: Places to get help if you need legal support.
● Immigrant Resource Guide: A list of helpful resources, including immigration lawyers, housing support, and job opportunities.
● California Attorney General Bonta’s Guidance for K-12 Schools: Providing Safe and Secure Learning Environment for All.

Thank you for partnering with us to make JESD a place where everyone belongs.

In Partnership, 
Sandy Mikulik, Superintendent