Protecting Immigrant Students: Howard County Schools Stand Strong in Uncertain Times

Education has long been a cornerstone of opportunity in the United States, and schools play a vital role in ensuring all children, regardless of their background, have the chance to learn and thrive. This principle was firmly established by the landmark Supreme Court case Plyler v. Doe (1982), which guarantees that all children, regardless of immigration status, have access to free public education.

The Court’s decision in Plyler v. Doe recognized that denying education to undocumented children violates the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment. The ruling emphasized that children should not be penalized for their parents’ choices and that withholding education harms not only individuals but society as a whole, creating barriers to integration and economic participation. This precedent remains a foundation of educational equity in the United States.

Today, schools are navigating complex challenges as they work to uphold this principle. Across the country, many districts are preparing for the possibility of increased immigration enforcement near schools, which has led to understandable concerns among families and educators. In Howard County, Maryland, the public school system (HCPSS) is taking proactive measures to address these concerns and ensure that schools remain a safe haven for all children.

HCPSS’s Plan to Address Unexpected Immigration Actions

On January 21, 2025, the Department of Homeland Security issued a directive permitting immigration enforcement actions in previously protected sensitive areas, including schools and bus stops. While no such incidents have been reported in Maryland or nationally, HCPSS responded swiftly by releasing updated guidance for handling unexpected visits from state or federal representatives to schools.

The Process for Unexpected State and Federal Representatives to Schools, issued on January 22, 2025, outlines the following steps:

1. Managing Unexpected Visitors:
When representatives from state or federal agencies arrive unannounced, the school principal or assistant principal is tasked with greeting the visitor and escorting them to a private office or conference room. During this interaction, the administrator will gather information about the purpose of the visit and immediately contact the HCPSS Division of Schools and General Counsel’s office for guidance.

2. Balancing Compliance and Protection:
While staff will not obstruct a lawful enforcement action, HCPSS emphasizes minimizing disruptions to the learning environment. This approach ensures compliance with the law while safeguarding the rights of students and their families.

3. Supporting Families and Communities:
HCPSS is actively working with county officials and community organizations to connect families to essential resources, including legal assistance, counseling, and other supports, reinforcing its role as a trusted community partner.

This directive reflects Howard County’s commitment to upholding the principles of Plyler v. Doe by ensuring schools remain welcoming and safe spaces for all students.

Building on a National Framework of Support
HCPSS’s actions mirror those of school districts across the nation. As highlighted in a recent New York Times article, districts in cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Denver are implementing similar protocols to address fears surrounding immigration enforcement. These districts are taking steps to empower families with knowledge of their rights, educate staff on managing enforcement actions, and reassure immigrant communities that public schools are places of refuge and support.

Key initiatives include:

• Protocols for ICE Visits: Like Howard County, other districts require that any immigration enforcement actions be supported by judicial warrants and involve district legal counsel to ensure compliance with the law.

• Empowering Families: Schools are hosting legal information sessions and providing multilingual resources to inform immigrant families about their rights. They emphasize that children have a legal right to education and that skipping school out of fear of deportation can have negative long-term effects.

• Addressing Broader Challenges: Many schools are working to support immigrant students who face unique hurdles, such as language barriers or interrupted education, by providing bilingual instruction, mental health services, and community resources.

A Clear Commitment to Safety and Opportunity

Howard County Public Schools’ efforts demonstrate a clear understanding of the challenges immigrant families face—and a firm resolve to meet those challenges head-on. By intertwining thoughtful protocols with community support, HCPSS ensures that every child, regardless of background, has the opportunity to thrive.

As communities across the U.S. prepare for potential shifts in immigration enforcement policies, the legacy of Plyler v. Doe is more important than ever. Public education is not just a right—it’s a foundation for integration, empowerment, and social cohesion. Howard County’s commitment to a safe, inclusive, and nurturing environment sends a powerful message: schools are places of learning, opportunity, and safety for every child, no matter where they come from.