MDE: New guidance for navigating changes in federal immigration policy | February 13, 2025 Read and share here
School Leaders, As I shared in a letter to Minnesota families and educators last week, MDE remains committed to ensuring every child--of every background, zip code and ability—has the opportunity to access a world-class education. Today, after continued conversations with our partners in the Office of Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison, I’m following up with new guidance for navigating changes in federal immigration policy within your school communities. Please consider this guidance--and similar resources listed below--as you are developing plans to maintain a safe and supportive learning environment for every student we serve. We know that uncertainty in the federal education landscape poses real challenges for students, families and educators. In the face of unknown federal action, MDE will continue to keep you informed. Thank you for your continued partnership in supporting our students and schools. - Commissioner Willie Jett
AASA Immigration Supports for School Leaders | January 23, 2025 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. 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. Access Immigration Supports here!
Immigration Enforcement | Published in the Henton Headlines | January 23, 2025 I have heard from many members seeking resources on how to talk to their staff and families about the new administration’s direction with immigrants and immigration. Earlier this week it was declared that schools are no longer considered “sensitive areas,” exempt from immigration enforcement. Here is an article that explains the change.
On Wednesday, I wrote the commissioner and deputy commissioner requesting guidance from MDE for schools. Last week in the Henton Headlines, I shared a toolkit and other resources for your use from MnEEP, the Minnesota Education Equity Partnership.
Until we have official guidance from the state, I recommend you review the MnEEP toolkit sent last week and contact your school district legal counsel with any questions you might have regarding immigration officials possibly entering school grounds.
Finally, I received this information from St. Cloud Superintendent Laurie Putnam that was vetted through her school district’s legal counsel. I highly recommend you read through it as it will be beneficial to your efforts moving forward.
MnEEP Toolkit: Creating Safe & Supportive Schools for Immigrant & EL Students
Dear K12 Leaders, Educators, and Student Advocates,
Thank you to those of you who attended MnEEP's Emerging Multilingual Learners Network webinar in December 2024! This event was designed to support school leaders from across the state and listen to their questions, fears, and concerns about ICE deportation threats and their impact on schools, students, and communities.
During the event, common questions emerged:
Can ICE enter school grounds?
Are schools required to provide ICE with student or family information?
What happens if a student comes home from school to find their family gone?
How can I best support students right now?
These pressing concerns underscored the need for actionable resources to guide educators and school staff in protecting students’ rights and creating safe, supportive environments for each and every student.
Clear guidance on legal and ethical responsibilities for safeguarding students.
Practical checklists for responding to situations like ICE presence on school grounds or family separations.
Strategies for addressing bullying, discrimination, and mental health challenges faced by immigrant and English Learner (EL) students.
Resources for developing sustainable, equitable school policies & culturally validating learning environments.
This toolkit is the first version of what will be an evolving resource. As new information, legislation, and best practices emerge, we will update the toolkit to reflect these changes and provide additional tools, resources, and case studies to support your work as educators and school leaders. Stay tuned for updates as we continue to build this essential resource together!
Thank you for your continued commitment to racial equity and to upholding the educational and human rights of your students. If you have any questions or would like to collaborate further, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us! In solidarity, The MnEEP Team