How Recent Executive Orders May Affect Our Schools

Good Afternoon SRUSD Families and Staff,

We want to keep you informed about important developments that may impact our schools and students. This week, following his inauguration, President Trump signed several executive orders that could affect education and student rights. While it’s too early to know the full impact, we are closely monitoring these changes and want to assure you that our district remains committed to providing a safe and welcoming learning environment for all students.

Key Updates and What They Mean for Our Schools:

1. Immigration Policies: President Trump has announced plans to review the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, which may create uncertainty for students and families. Please know that California law guarantees every child the right to an education, regardless of immigration status. Our schools will continue to be safe and inclusive spaces for all students.

2. Federal Education Funding: Potential changes to funding programs like Title I (for low-income students) and Title II (for teacher training) could impact the resources available to our schools. We are working alongside state and national leaders to advocate for the support our students need.

3. Civil Rights Protections: There are concerns that policies related to gender identity and school equity could change. However, our district remains committed to upholding California’s strong anti-discrimination laws to protect all students.

4. Birthright Citizenship: An executive order has been signed attempting to end birthright citizenship for children born in the U.S. to non-citizen parents. However, legal challenges are already underway, and the 14th Amendment continues to guarantee citizenship to all individuals born in the U.S.

5. Immigration Enforcement on School Campuses: A revocation of a prior federal directive barring arrests in sensitive areas, such as schools, medical facilities, and churches has been issued. Even so, the State of California Assembly Bill 699 prohibits schools from collecting information about families’ immigration status and dictates that schools must pass policies limiting assistance with immigration enforcement as public schools. Our Board of Trustees passed Resolution 25.01.01 on January 8, 2025 confirming our commitment to providing a safe and free public education to all students, regardless of immigration status. This Resolution recognizes and memorializes that commitment to uphold our Core Values, Board Policies and state laws.

How We’re Supporting Our Community:

• Know Your Rights Workshop: Please join us on February 12 at Alisal High School as Salinas Union High School District will host a Know Your Rights Informational Session for the community .

• "Know Your Rights" Cards: We will be distributing these cards to our front offices to be provided to families with quick reference information in case they need it.

• Community Support: We’re partnering with local organizations to offer resources and assistance to affected families.

• Advocacy Efforts: We are working with state and national educational organizations to ensure that your voices are heard and that our schools receive the resources they need.

• Staff & Community Resources: We will continue to provide support to help students and families navigate these changes.

Our priority is to ensure that every student feels safe, supported, and valued. We encourage families to stay informed and connected with us as we navigate these changes together. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out.

Thank you for your continued support and commitment to our students.

Sincerely,

Dr. Melissa Alderman

Superintendent

Santa Rita Union School District