There was a lot of fear Central Valley immigration raids drive up absences in schools

A Stanford University report indicated that recent immigration raids in California's Central Valley resulted in a 22% increase in student absences across five school districts. The study highlighted that empty classrooms negatively impact educational opportunities and funding tied to attendance rates. The raids, part of "Operation Return to Sender," targeted immigrants at gas stations and restaurants, exacerbating fear in the community. Thomas Dee, the report's author, stated that the results reflect the broader distress these raids cause for families, regardless of their immigration status. The youngest students were found to be most affected, as they are more likely to have undocumented parents.

With approximately 1 in 10 California children having at least one undocumented parent, the implications for education are significant. The report warned that absentee rates may continue to rise if immigration enforcement persists. The study underscores the need for policy responses to address the impact of such raids on educational access and community stability.