Immigration Supports for School Leaders

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Type: Toolkit

Topics: Advocacy & Policy, Communications & Public Relations, Community & Family Engagement, Immigration, Legal Matters

January 22, 2025

Resources for educational leaders in preparation of potential increased immigration enforcement efforts.

Due to recent government actions including the rescinding of a 2021 memo on “protected areas” that included schools, the subject of immigration has been widely discussed across the country. Specifically, there are concerns that increasing efforts to deport undocumented individuals living in the United States will play out in schools and other places where children gather, learn and receive essential services.

It is important to understand that, by law, a child's immigration status (or that of their parents) does not affect their right to receive a public education. As always, school leaders are focused on providing a safe and welcoming learning environment where every student can grow, thrive and learn how to contribute productively to society.

AASA recognizes the current environment around immigration may raise serious concerns within your community. We are here to assist you in any way we can, and we encourage you to take advantage of the resources and supports available when making your plans and coordinating your outreach.

AASA Resources:

External Resources

FAQ on H1-B Visas and K-12 Organizations:

This resource provides an overview of how K-12 institutions can utilize H-1B visas for roles like teachers, social workers, and specialized administrative positions and details how the 2024 H-1B Modernization Rule expanded cap-exempt eligibility and clarified specialty occupation definitions for H-1B visas. For K-12 schools, partnerships with universities and a focus on research-oriented activities can increase eligibility for cap-exempt status. View Full Resource