Saying they feared children would stay away from school following immigration raids in Kern County last week, a group of Fresno-area education advocates and two trustees are emphasizing that schools are safe places for students, regardless of immigration status.

Central Unified Trustee Nabil Kherfan, Fresno County Board of Education Trustee Itzi Robles, and representatives from Centro La Familia and the Education & Leadership Foundation held a news conference Thursday at the Teague Community Resource Center.

While people may be staying away jobs and stores for fear of being detained, the group said schools do not allow immigration agents onto grounds without a warrant.

“We’re hearing from individuals in the community that there may be a rise in absenteeism ,” Kherfan said. “So it’s really important for us that we head that off by reminding our families that may not have been as afraid of this in the last four years that school is a safe place. Law enforcement for immigration cannot enter a school without a warrant signed by a judge.”

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Parents Afraid to Go Out Following Immigration Operations

Customs and Border Patrol last week held an immigration raid in Kern County, arresting 78 people, all of whom had criminal records, the federal agency said. As agents carried out these actions, rumors spread about the extent of the operation.

As rumors arose, many people stayed away from jobs, going to the doctor, or even going out shopping out of fear of being detained, said Margarita Rocha, executive director of Centro La Familia. She said the volume of calls they got greatly increased with people asking about their rights.

“A parent is afraid to do their daily work, their daily activities for fear that they leave home, and they will not be there when their child returns home,” Rocha said.

Only a week into the spring semester, Kherfan said he has heard from administrators about some students not showing up.

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What Rights Do People Have?

Mario Gonzalez, program director with Centro La Familia, outlined what rights undocumented people have. He said that while people should ask questions of any officer detaining them, they do not have to answer any questions posed by the officer. By giving certain information to officers, the burden of proof of citizenship can shift to the individual, Gonzalez said.

“Ask if you’re allowed to leave; if you’re being detained or being held against your will, ask if you are allowed to leave; if you are allowed to leave, continue on your way, do not run, do not immediately try to hide,” Gonzalez said.

He said officers are not allowed to enter a home without a warrant. A warrant is usually a packet of documents, compared to a deportation order which is usually one or two pages. He also said not to sign any document. People can call their consulate or their attorney.

Centro La Familia has cards that outline those rights that can be given to law enforcement.

Clovis Unified is working with its educational teams to address concerns and convey messaging about the safety of schools, said Kelly Avants, communications director for the district.

“Our students and families in Clovis Unified can expect that their local school is a safe and welcoming place in which they can learn and grow to their fullest potential,” said Superintendent Corrine Folmer.

Fresno Unified also a task force hearing concerns and responding with targeted resources, said Nikki Henry, chief communications officer with Fresno Unified.

“We want our families to know that our schools are safe places for students and families,” said Henry. “Our policy is clear and strong that immigration enforcement is not allowed on our campuses unless forced through a valid court order. We’ve been in communication with local law enforcement who has assured us that they will not be supporting immigration enforcement across any of our schools either.”