Right of Undocumented Students & Families

The Camden City School District is committed to its obligation to educate all children and to ensure a safe and nurturing learning environment. This is a right for every student regardless of documentation status. The purpose of this page is to provide information and resources for our families.

Parent’s Rights

All parents, regardless of immigration status, have key rights within K-12 schools. Below is an outline of these key rights. For more information and resources, please visit: ImmSchools Family Hub.

Public Education for Immigrant Students: Understanding Plyler v. Doe

The Supreme Court ruling of 1982 states that every child, regardless of immigration status, has a right to receive a K-12 education. School districts cannot inquire about a student’s immigration status or require proof of citizenship such as a Social Security Number or birth certificate.

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)

  • Schools and districts are prohibited from providing student information to anyone, including ICE, without parental consent.
  • Exceptions:
    • Consent;
    • court order;
    • or subpoena.

Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Protected Areas Protocol

  • There should be no ICE arrests, interviews, searches at schools, hospitals, places of worship, demonstrations
  • Special exceptions:
    • If posed an imminent threat, such as national security risk. Immediate pursuit of a person who poses a danger to the public. Risk of destruction of property

Policies and Legislation: Federal Programs

  • Fears over public disclosure of immigration status may make some parents reluctant to enroll their children in early education programs.