What can San Francisco teachers do if ICE comes knocking?

San Francisco teachers face heightened anxiety as students return to public schools, with concerns about potential ICE raids looming over their classrooms. Following policy changes under the Trump administration, educators are proactively preparing by distributing Know Your Rights cards and establishing protocols for emergency situations. Although the district has implemented sanctuary policies and provided some legal training, teachers express frustration over the lack of comprehensive training directly addressing immigration enforcement. The United Educators of San Francisco union advocates for guaranteed access to such training in ongoing contract negotiations. Recent incidents of ICE detaining individuals near schools have intensified fears among teachers and families.

Superintendent Maria Su has reaffirmed the district's commitment to immigrant students, emphasizing that families should not disclose their immigration status. The district prohibits staff from cooperating with immigration enforcement without a judicial warrant. Despite these measures, educators worry about the impact of ICE's presence on student attendance and overall school safety.