CCSF Board Policy 5.041 and Administrative Procedure 5.041: Student Information Relating to Immigration – This policy and procedure establish that no student information shall be disclosed for immigration enforcement purposes without a court order, judicial warrant, or signed and dated written consent by the student or, if the student is a minor, the student’s parent or guardian.

CCSF Board Policy 5.042 and Administrative Procedure 5.042: Responding to Immigration Enforcement – This policy and procedure outline the establishment of protocols relating to potential immigration enforcement at the College.

  1. Can federal immigration authorities come onto a California community college campus to enforce immigration laws?

    In California, federal immigration authorities, such as U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), may only enter a community college campus if they have a valid warrant, such as an arrest or search warrant. Without a warrant or other legal authorization, they cannot detain or arrest individuals on campus. California law (SB 54, the California Values Act) limits cooperation between state and local law enforcement and federal immigration authorities, which includes restrictions on ICE accessing college campuses for immigration enforcement purposes.
     
  2. Are community college employees required to disclose students' immigration status to federal authorities?

    No. Under both federal law (FERPA) and California law, community colleges are not required to share students' immigration status with federal authorities unless there is a specific legal obligation, such as a valid subpoena or court order. California's sanctuary laws further protect students' privacy by restricting the release of personal information, including immigration status, to federal immigration enforcement.
     
  3. What should I do if an immigration enforcement officer asks for information or access to a student’s record at a California community college?

    If an immigration officer requests information about a student or access to their records, you must immediately refer the request to the college president or district chancellor. Do not share any student information without proper legal authorization. Document the request and any actions taken. Under California law, colleges are prohibited from voluntarily sharing student information with immigration authorities unless there is a specific legal requirement.
     
  4. Can federal immigration officials arrest a student on a California community college campus?

    Federal immigration authorities may arrest individuals if they have a valid warrant. However, California's sanctuary laws (SB 54) generally limit the involvement of local and state agencies in federal immigration enforcement, and this extends to community colleges. Immigration officials are not allowed to conduct enforcement operations on campuses unless they have the necessary legal authority (e.g., an arrest warrant). In such cases, employees should contact the college president or district chancellor and avoid direct involvement in enforcement actions.
     
  5. What protections do undocumented students have at California community colleges?

    Undocumented students in California are afforded several protections. State law provides that students cannot be denied access to public education based on their immigration status. Furthermore, California's sanctuary laws limit the role of college staff in assisting federal immigration enforcement efforts. Students are also protected by federal laws such as the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, if they are enrolled. It is strongly recommended that undocumented students seek legal advice to fully understand their rights and protections.
     
  6. Can I document an immigration officer’s information and/or actions by recording them on my smartphone?

    Assuming there is no interference with law enforcement functions, California law allows an individual to record a law enforcement official discharging functions in public spaces. The recording should not be done surreptitiously nor in any way that may reasonably be deemed to interfere with the officer’s functions.