NJ Education Department updates protocols on dealing with immigration agents
The agency updated its School Protocols for Immigration Enforcement in an effort to safeguard the well-being of undocumented immigrant students.
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The New Jersey Department of Education is advising schools to protect undocumented immigrant students and their families after the Trump administration lifted a ban on immigration agents making arrests in sensitive locations.
The Trump administration on Tuesday announced that it would allow immigration agents to make arrests at places like schools, churches and hospitals - lifting a ban that was in place for nearly 14 years.
Following the announcement, the New Jersey Department of Education updated its School Protocols for Immigration Enforcement to safeguard the well-being of undocumented immigrant students.
It says schools, "Must honor valid judicial search or arrest warrants," and that "it is vitally important for school officials to obtain a copy..." and to "present it to your district legal counsel before taking any action in response to immigration officials..."
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The policy goes on to say, "If an immigration agent seeks to or enters school grounds in an official capacity, immediately contact the chief school administrator."
The guidance also advises school officials to create a protocol for supporting students and families affected by deportation.
It says that includes collaborating with community organizations for legal resources.
More information about students' rights can be found on the state's education website.
