Know Your Rights & Immigration Resources
Supporting All Students and Families in the La Honda-Pescadero Unified School District
Our Commitment
LHPUSD welcomes and supports all students and families, regardless of immigration status. Every child in California has the right to a free, high-quality public education, and our schools are safe, inclusive places for learning and growth. Our District will not collect or share information about a student's or family's immigration status unless required by law. We are committed to maintaining a learning environment where every student feels valued, safe, and respected.
A Message from Superintendent Ross
Superintendent Michelle Ross shares a message to families reaffirming LHPUSD's ongoing commitment to creating schools where every student feels safe, supported, and included. Her letter celebrates the strength and diversity of our community and highlights how we work together to ensure all children feel they belong.
Your Rights in School
Every student in LHPUSD has important rights, protected by state and federal law:
You have the right to enroll in school and receive a free public education regardless of your or your family’s immigration status.
You do not need to provide a Social Security Number or immigration documents to enroll your child.
The district will not release student or family information to immigration officials without a valid judicial warrant, court order, or as required by law.
District staff are trained to protect the privacy and safety of students and families.
Download “Know Your Rights” Cards:
These cards explain your rights and what to do if you or someone in your family is approached by immigration enforcement.
If Immigration Officials Come to School or Home
If immigration enforcement agents arrive at a school site:
Staff will follow district policy to verify documentation and immediately notify the Superintendent’s office.
Students will not be released or questioned without a valid warrant or court order.
Families will be contacted if any inquiry or request for records is made.
Legal and counseling support is available through the district and local partners.
Families are encouraged to create a Family Preparedness Plan, including emergency contacts and important documents.
Downloadable Resources:
Enrollment, Privacy & Non-Discrimination
When enrolling your child:
Proof of citizenship or immigration status is not required.
Social Security Numbers are optional and not needed for enrollment.
Schools will ask only for information required by law (for example, proof of residence or vaccination record).
LHPUSD does not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, national origin, or immigration status. We uphold equal access to all educational programs and services.
View our Non-Discrimination Policy HERE
Resources & Support
If you or your family have questions, need support, or want to connect with community resources, help is available, locally and confidentially.
Bay Area Resources
Rapid Response Hotline: If ICE comes to your home, work, or neighborhood, call the San Mateo County Rapid Response Hotline at 203-666-4472.
San Mateo County Office of Education-Resources for Undocumented Students and Families
California Resources
CA Department of Justice- Know Your Educational Rights (English) |
CA Departamento de Justicia- Conozca sus derechos educativos (Spanish)
California Attorney General: Immigration Guidance for Schools
CA Department of Justice- Quick Reference Guide for School Officials
Other Helpful Resources:
Immigrant Legal Resource Center: Know Your Rights Cards & Family Preparedness Plan
Immigrant Rights (English)/Derechos de los Immigrantes (Spanish) - ACLU
Warrant and Subpoena Document Samples
From the California Attorney General's guide: Promoting a Safe and Secure Campus for All
If you are unsure where to start or need help connecting with a resource, please contact your school office — staff can help you confidentially and in your preferred language.

