“Governor Maura Healey today announced new statewide guidance for schools, child care providers, higher education campuses, health care facilities and places of worship regarding interactions with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents. The guidance is intended to help organizations across Massachusetts protect access to essential services understand their rights and responsibilities and prepare staff to respond appropriately if federal immigration officers arrive on site.”
“The guidance outlines clear steps child care providers, K-12 schools, public and private colleges and universities, and health care facilities and places of worship can take to respond if federal immigration officers arrive on site.”
“The guidance released today includes recommendations for:
“Schools, child care providers and higher education institutions:
- Routing interactions with federal immigration officers through designated administrators or trained staff
- Requiring legal review of warrants or requests for access before taking action
- Declining access to nonpublic areas, including classrooms, offices and dormitories, unless presented with a valid judicial warrant or judicial order
- Protecting confidential student and family information unless disclosure is legally required
- Documenting interactions and following internal reporting protocols”
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“Statements of Support”
“Amy O’Leary, Executive Director of Strategies for Children:
“We are grateful to Governor Maura Healey and her Administration for their continued leadership at a time when many families are facing fear and uncertainty. Every child deserves safety, stability, and the opportunity to learn and grow. Schools and early learning programs must remain safe, welcoming spaces where children can learn and play without fear. Early childhood educators are on the front lines every day, supporting children and families with compassion, dedication, and resolve under challenging circumstances. We deeply value this resilient workforce and their commitment to building trust, strengthening partnerships with families, and providing high quality learning experiences. At the heart of this work is the well-being of children, the stability of families, and the strength of our communities.”