Dear Families,

We know that recent events and conversations in our community have caused fear and uncertainty for some of our families. Our students’ safety and well-being are always at the center of our decisions, and we want you to know that our schools remain places of care, learning, and support.

We encourage you to watch the video above and review the FAQ below. If you have questions or need support, please reach out to your school or visit our website. We are here to partner with you.

With care and appreciation,

Dr. Sonia Llamas,
Superintendent

Student Support and Safe Learning Zones | Frequently Asked Questions

Our school community includes students and families from many backgrounds, and we know that recent immigration enforcement activity in our region has raised concerns and questions for some families. We want to reassure you that your child’s safety and well-being remain our highest priorities. Our staff is here to support students, maintain a safe and welcoming campus, and partner with families during times of uncertainty.
 

What is the school doing to keep students safe?

Student safety is our top priority every day. Our school follows established safety procedures to ensure that students are supervised throughout the school day, campus access is controlled, and staff respond appropriately to safety concerns.

Are school staff prepared if immigration enforcement agents attempt to come onto campus?

Yes. School administrators have received guidance and resources to respond appropriately if outside agencies attempt to access a campus.

What happens if someone who is not authorized tries to enter the school?

If an unauthorized individual attempts to enter campus or a situation elevates safety concerns, the school will follow established safety protocols designed to protect students and staff, maintain calm and supervision, prevent unauthorized access to classrooms, and respond appropriately based on the situation.

How will families know if immigration enforcement agents come to their student’s school?

If immigration enforcement activity is reported or occurs at a school, the District will communicate with families as quickly as possible once information is confirmed. We are committed to being transparent, sharing what we know, and providing clear updates while avoiding the spread of unverified information.

Does the District work with community organizations to support families?

Yes. The District values partnerships with trusted community organizations that support families and provide resources. These partnerships help us respond with care and coordination.

How does the school address rumors or misinformation?

We understand that uncertainty can lead to rumors. When situations arise, we share verified information as soon as appropriate. Families are encouraged to rely on official school and District communications.

How can families support their students during this time?

Families can help by talking with their children, listening to concerns, reassuring them that school is a safe place, and reaching out to school staff if support is needed.

Where can families find reliable updates?

Families should look for updates through ParentSquare, school and District websites, and official messages from school or District leadership.

The toolkit was shared with principals again with a message to reinforce protocols, and the August message to families was shared with families again.

We held a series of webinars to introduce the immigration enforcement response toolkit to principals and assistant principals, walking through the materials and answering questions. The kit and webinars ensured all principals had consistent resources and approved items to help respond to questions, guide staff, and confidently address any encounters with ICE on campus. I can share more specific information with you about the toolkit tomorrow, but in summary it contained: 

• What to Do if Immigration Enforcement Officers Come to Your School: Step-by-Step Quick Reference Guide  
• Immigration Contact Incident Report Form  
• “CA DOJ Know Your Educational Rights” Resources for Families
• Immigrant Legal Resource Center’s “Red Cards”
• TODEC: Know Your Rights Flyer (English and Spanish)
• Emergency contact and family preparedness forms
• Draft letter to school community in case of an immigration enforcement agency on campus
• Draft letter to staff for principals to share resources and send a reminder about board policy
• Staff guidance for answering questions and reassuring family members and students
• Relevant board policies & resolution
• County and community resources (updated regularly)

The following items were printed at the central office and sent directly to each school site to place in the front office:

• Know Your Rights Cards Bilingual
• English Know Your Rights Flyer
• Spanish Know Your Rights Flyer
• Family Plan Support and Caregiver Affidavit Authorization Cards

Dear RUSD Families,

In light of immigration-related activity across Southern California, we understand that many of our students and families may be facing uncertainty or fear about what lies ahead. At Riverside Unified School District (RUSD), we want to speak directly to those concerns.

Every student holds incredible potential, and it is our responsibility to nurture that promise. That means creating an environment where each child’s safety, dignity, and sense of belonging are protected, regardless of immigration status or national origin. Our schools are safe learning zones for all students, and we are proud to serve a community made stronger by its diversity, resilience, and shared commitment to education.

Here’s what you should know:

Your Right to Attend School

Under California law and federal guidance, all children have the right to a public education, regardless of immigration status. This right is protected and non-negotiable.

Your Privacy is Protected

RUSD does not collect or share any information about the immigration or citizenship status of students or their families. We follow strict confidentiality practices to protect your personal information.

District Policy on Immigration Enforcement

In accordance with Board Policy 5145.13 and Administrative Regulation 5145.13, RUSD staff are trained to respond appropriately if approached by immigration enforcement agents. Unless legally required, RUSD does not permit immigration enforcement on campus. Schools are considered “sensitive locations” under the California Values Act (SB 54), and enforcement activity in these spaces is highly restricted.

We Are Not Alone in This Work

We remain in close coordination with community partners who share our commitment to maintaining community trust, upholding state law, and supporting safe learning environments for all families.

Support Is Available

We understand the emotional toll that uncertainty can take. If your child is feeling anxious or your family needs assistance, we encourage you to contact your school site or reach out to our Family Resource Center at (951) 328-4003. Our counselors, staff, and community partners are here to help.

Below are community-based resources that may also support your family:

Know Your Rights – TODEC | Conoce Tus Derechos – TODEC

Family Preparedness Plan | Plan de preparación familiar

Inland Empire Immigrant Youth Coalition (IEIYC) Resource List | Lista de recursos

IEIYC Legal Resources | Recursos legales

A Shared Commitment

Now and always, RUSD remains committed to providing safe, supportive, and inclusive schools for all students. We recognize that many of our families may be of mixed immigration status, and we want you to know that you are not alone. Our strength as a district lies in our unity, compassion, and care for one another.

If you have questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact your school site. We are here for you.

With care and respect,
Riverside Unified School District

Dear RUSD Staff and Families, 

We understand that increased immigration enforcement activity in Southern California is creating uncertainty in our community. Riverside Unified School District (RUSD) stands with our students and families, and in accordance with BP: 3515.19, our district campuses are safe learning zones and supportive spaces for all.

We would like to reassure our families regarding district practices related to privacy and access to our schools. First, RUSD does not collect or share immigration status information of any student or family member. 

Second, we follow a clear district policy that outlines how we respond if approached by immigration enforcement (BP: 5145.13 / AR:5145.13). Our staff are trained to follow these procedures, which are grounded in California law. We will do everything within our legal authority to protect the rights and dignity of our students and families while not interfering with lawful action.

California state law, including the California Values Act (SB 54), provides strong protections for students and families in schools. Schools are considered “sensitive locations,” and immigration enforcement is highly restricted on school grounds. Additionally, we remain in close communication with the Riverside Police Department, which has affirmed its commitment to community trust and safety while carrying out its duties in alignment with state laws, as stated by Chief Larry Gonzalez in his message to the community.

We recognize that it is likely that many of our families are of mixed immigration status, and we want you to know you are not alone. Below are some resources that you may find helpful:

Know Your Rights - TODEC | Conoce Tus Derechos - TODEC  

Training Occupational Development Educating Communities (TODEC)  

Family Preparedness Plan | Plan de preparación

Inland Empire Immigrant Youth Coalition (IEIYC) Resource List/Lista de recursos

IEIYC Legal Resources/Recursos legales

You may also call the RUSD Family Resource Center at (951) 328-4003 for referrals.

Thank you for being part of our RUSD family. In challenging times, our strength comes from compassion, understanding, and unity. Let us continue to support one another with kindness and empathy.

RUSD is committed to upholding policies that promote safe and welcoming environments for every student, family, and staff member. In alignment with our board policies, BP: 3515.19 District Campuses As Safe Learning Zones, BP: 5125 Student Records, BP: 5145.13 Response To Immigration Enforcement, our district actively develops and implements comprehensive safety plans to address and respond to any emergencies that may arise. 

Additionally, Resolution No. 2016/17-39 (English - Spanish) reaffirms that all campuses are safe learning zones, emphasizing our commitment to providing an inclusive and secure environment for all, regardless of immigration status. 

The details of these policies, as well as safety-related information, can be found on page 23 of the 2024-2025 RUSD Annual Parent Notification & pages 24-25 of the RUSD Spanish version.

The Department of Justice has provided school districts with this quick reference guide to school officials on steps for addressing potential visits from immigration enforcement officers.

We also collaborate closely with community partners to offer resources and support to families facing unique challenges. Counseling services, connections to local organizations, a guide to creating a family plan (English - Spanish) and additional district resources are available to assist during difficult times. If you or your family require support, please do not hesitate to contact your school site or our district Family Resource Center directly.

Thank you again for your inquiry. Please feel free to reach out if you have any further questions or need additional assistance.