As college access practitioners, we need to create and foster a safe environment for undocumented students and mixed-status families from the moment schools start and maintain this as priority throughout the year. In this blog Immschools, highlights how to foster safe and inclusive school environments for undocumented and mixed-status students and families.
1 out of 8 students in Texas is undocumented or has at least one undocumented parent. In the realm of education, the silent struggle of undocumented students and mixed-status families demands our attention. Trust and courage, essential companions on their journey, hinge on the delicate act of disclosing immigration status. As practitioners, we carry the responsibility of proactively creating a secure and inclusive environment.
Successful schools take deliberate steps, employing visuals, inclusive terms, and providing default resources for all students, including those with undocumented or mixed-status backgrounds. Join us as we explore our roles as allies, advocates, and sources of information for our students.
Let's begin by establishing a common understanding of key terms within undocumented communities. The terminology we'll delve into includes 'undocumented' and 'documented student with an undocumented parent.' By clarifying these terms, we aim to foster a shared foundation for the discussions ahead.