As concerns grow over President Donald Trump’s plans for mass deportations, the Moreno Valley Unified School District (MVUSD) in California has reaffirmed its commitment to creating a safe and inclusive environment for all students, regardless of their immigration status. While the district has assured families of their rights, fear remains prevalent among undocumented parents, who worry about potential separation from their children and loved ones.
Superintendent’s Message to the Community
On Wednesday, MVUSD Superintendent Alejandro Ruvalcaba sent a message to families addressing the district’s stance on protecting students’ rights to education.
Key Points from the Superintendent’s Message:
- The district is committed to providing a safe and inclusive learning environment for all students, regardless of immigration status or sexual orientation/gender expression.
- The U.S. Constitution guarantees every child the right to an education without discrimination.
- California law prohibits schools from denying access to education based on immigration status. Families are also not required to provide citizenship or immigration information for school enrollment.
- Students or families experiencing stress or anxiety due to federal immigration policies are encouraged to seek support and counseling through the school district.
“Our schools are the heartbeat of the community where all students can learn, grow, and thrive,” Ruvalcaba wrote.
Undocumented Families Voice Their Fears
Despite the district’s reassurances, many undocumented parents remain deeply concerned. One mother, who declined to be identified, shared her growing fear of deportation and separation from her family.
The Mother’s Story:
- She worries about being separated from her five-year-old U.S.-citizen son.
- She also fears for her undocumented parents, with whom she shares a close bond.
- “I am very afraid. It’s something that shocked me a lot,” she said, describing the impact of Trump’s immigration policies.
She has made contingency plans in case she or her family members are deported, designating someone to care for her son.
Federal Developments Adding to Anxiety
Concerns among undocumented families intensified after the Trump administration announced the arrest of over 300 individuals in a nationwide crackdown. Federal officials emphasized that criminals would no longer be able to avoid arrest by hiding in schools or churches, areas that were previously considered safe havens.
The mother expressed her unease, saying, “It’s sad because before you could go to church and you knew you could be safe. Now with Trump, you no longer feel safe anywhere.”
School District’s Preparedness
Parents have questioned the district about its policies if immigration agents were to arrive on campus. A district spokeswoman confirmed that the district would comply with the law but did not provide specific details on how such situations would be handled.
In the meantime, the district is focusing on providing emotional support to students and families:
- Counseling services are available for those experiencing stress or anxiety due to immigration concerns.
- Families are encouraged to reach out to school officials for assistance.
Community Impact and Support
The superintendent’s message has brought some comfort to families, but for many, the fear persists. “Yes, it helped me to read it. I felt more calm, but it doesn’t take away my fear because I’m still scared,” said the mother.
The district’s proactive stance highlights the critical role schools play in supporting vulnerable families during uncertain times. By offering resources and reaffirming their legal obligations, schools like those in MVUSD aim to provide a semblance of stability for children and their parents.
The Moreno Valley Unified School District’s reassurance has brought some relief to families living in fear of deportation. However, for undocumented parents, the constant worry of separation from their children and loved ones remains a daily challenge.
As the Trump administration continues to enforce stricter immigration policies, schools will play an essential role in providing emotional and practical support to their communities.
The district’s commitment to inclusivity reflects a broader effort to uphold the rights of all students, ensuring that education remains a safe haven even in the face of uncertainty.
