With increased immigration enforcement activity and related violence occurring in cities across the country, Shoreline Schools is sharing information about how we would handle an immigration enforcement presence at our schools and resources for families during this challenging time.

Shoreline Schools welcomes and supports students and families of all backgrounds. We do not ask about, record, or share anyone’s immigration status. We have policies and practices in place to prevent unauthorized access to our school(s).
 

What we do Provide a welcoming, safe learning environment for all students. Protect student and family information as required by law. Ask families to keep emergency contacts up to date. Direct families to community immigration-related resources, listed below. What we don't do We do not ask about immigration status. We do not share personal information for immigration enforcement. We do not allow immigration agents access to students, staff, or records without a valid court order. We do not use district resources to support immigration enforcement.

What happens if ICE comes to a school

Keep in mind that our schools direct visitors to one point of entry during the school day, ensuring that people use the secure vestibules that are equipped with cameras, and requiring screening and sign-in before accessing the school beyond the office. Teachers and staff are trained to not prop open exterior doors for any purpose.

If immigration officials come to a school, staff will follow district policy: they must be referred to the principal, who will refer the matter to the Superintendent’s office and legal counsel before any action is taken. 
Policy 4300, Limiting Immigration Enforcement in Schools
Policy 3226, Interviews and Interrogations of Students on School Premises

Immigration officials do not have permission to access school grounds or their immediate vicinity, which include (but are not limited to) adjacent sidewalks, parking areas, sports facilities, playgrounds, and building entrances and exits, per Policy 4300.

School administrators have been instructed to lock out their school building if immigration enforcement is on or near campus, in order to help ensure safety of students, staff, and families. A lock out is when all students and staff are brought inside, all exterior doors are locked (which they already are during our school days, with rare exceptions), and learning continues as normal inside the building. The school would remain on lock out until the danger has passed; at which time, the school day would proceed to include recess and/or other outdoor activities or, if after dismissal, a reunification process would begin. Families would be contacted via ParentSquare with information if a lock out and/or reunification were to occur. Families should not come to the school during a lock out or prior to receiving information about where a reunification would take place.

Bus drivers are instructed not to release students into an area that might be unsafe. If a student(s) is kept on a bus due to safety concerns, they will be brought back to their school or to an alternate safe location, and the family(ies) will be contacted for pickup.
 

What families can do to stay safe

Families should ensure that all emergency contact information is up to date with the school and that the student is also aware of who their emergency contacts are. In case a student or their parent or caregiver is detained by ICE, it is crucial that the school has the most up-to-date information for that student’s emergency contact(s). As a parent or caregiver, if you are unable to drive your child to and from school each day, you can arrange a carpooling schedule but always be sure to inform your child’s school who is authorized to drop off and pick up your child.

Make sure your child knows who can pick them up from school and inform your child’s school if you cannot pick up your child that day. Talk to your child about basic safety practices, including not talking to strangers and communicating any concerns with you. 

If you, your child, or other loved ones are at risk for immigration enforcement, consider developing a family preparedness plan. A family preparedness plan is a tool that helps families create an organized plan of action with access to important information. For parents or caregivers who are at risk for immigration enforcement, it also helps identify their wants in their absence. Generally, a family preparedness plan includes a childcare plan and important documents—such as birth certificates, passports, school records, medical records, immigration history—in one location. Family Preparedness Plan

Resources for families and staff

In today’s shifting immigration landscape, as individuals, parents, caregivers, teachers, and school staff, staying informed and knowing your rights isn’t just smart—it’s essential. Immigration enforcement actions can happen unexpectedly, and understanding your legal protections can make all the difference.

Washington Immigrant Solidarity Network offers opportunities to get involved in your community.

Know Your Rights: Stopped by Police - translated into Spanish (ACLU)

Know Your Rights Under the U.S. Constitution – No Matter Who Is President - translated into Chinese, Arabic, Korean, and Spanish (National Immigration Law Center)

Know Your Rights with ICE (Washington Immigrant Solidarity Network)

• English 

• Spanish

• Amharic

• Simplified Chinese

• Portuguese

• Somali

• Tagalog

• Tigrinya

• Ukrainian

• Vietnamese

Immigrant Legal Resource Center's red cards give examples of how people can exercise their rights. For on-demand printing in many languages.

More Know Your Rights resources (Northwest Immigrant Rights Project)

Talking to young children about ICE and immigration

Even if a child isn’t directly affected, they may hear about ICE at school or online. Avoiding the topic can lead to more fear. Calm, honest conversations help children feel safe and supported. What to Say to Kids About ICE | Spanish PDF
 

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For Kids: What to Do If You're Worried About ICE

Download PDF

You’re not alone. This guide is just for YOU so you can feel safer, stronger, and supported.

Your Feelings Matter
It’s normal to feel scared, confused, or upset. You might hear things about ICE or people being taken away.
Here’s how you can feel a little better:

• Take 3 slow, deep breaths
• Talk to someone you trust
• Draw or write what you’re feeling
• Tell yourself: “I am safe right now.”

You Have Rights
Yes! Even kids have rights.
If someone from ICE comes or asks questions:

• You don’t have to talk
• You don’t have to open the door
• You can say: “I want to talk to a lawyer”
• You can use a Red Card (ask a grown-up for one)

Your Family Plan
Ask your grown-up about your safety plan.
Things you should know:

• Your full name and your parent’s name
• A phone number you can call
• Who will take care of you if needed
• Where important papers are kept

Your family can practice the plan with you.
Helping Your Friends and Community
You can help if someone you care about is scared:

• Be kind and listen
• Say: “I’m here for you”
• Take deep breaths together
• Tell a trusted adult if something feels wrong
• Learn about your rights and talk to your family

Speak Up for What’s Right
Your voice matters. Even if you’re a kid, you can help make the world better!
When something feels unfair or wrong:

• Talk with a trusted adult
• Ask questions
• Stand up for your friends
• Say: “That’s not okay”

You don’t have to be loud to be brave.
Who Can I Talk To?
You never have to face things alone.
If you’re scared or confused, talk to:

• Your parent or caregiver
• A teacher or school counselor
• A family friend or trusted adult

There are people who want to help you feel safe.

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Our priority is ensuring that Shoreline schools remain safe, welcoming places for learning, and we will continue to act in alignment with our policies and values to support all members of our community.