No, ICE has not raided any Long Beach schools
LBUSD debunked social media rumors that the agency is active within the district, which launched a resources webpage last week ‘in solidarity’ with immigrant students and their families.
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Rumors circulating on social media allege that ICE agents have been seen at Long Beach schools detaining students and their families — but the district and local organizations were quick to dispel them.
Social media posts alleged ICE raids had taken place at Stevenson Elementary School and Cabrillo High School this week. Long Beach Unified School District officials and organizers with Órale, a local nonprofit that advocates for immigrants, immediately responded to inquiries stating no such incidents have occurred.
“We can confirm there have been no ICE raids at any of our campuses,” a district spokesperson said in an email Wednesday, noting that unsubstantiated rumors can spread unnecessary fear within the community.
Órale, in an Instagram post Thursday, thanked community members who “promptly and privately” shared their concerns with officials, “demonstrating their commitment to community awareness and safety.”
On Friday, Jan. 17, ahead of the inauguration of President Donald Trump, LBUSD launched a new webpage outlining its position on the immigration fight being waged by the new administration. The district alerted parents to the page via text and email the same day.
“[The district] stands in solidarity with our immigrant students and families,” the webpage reads. “We are committed to providing a safe, supportive and inclusive learning environment for all students, regardless of immigration status.”
The move was validated Tuesday when Trump announced it would allow federal immigration agencies to make arrests at schools, churches and hospitals, ending a policy established in 2011, according to an Associated Press report. During his campaign, Trump promised the “largest deportation program” in U.S. history.
“This action empowers the brave men and women in CBP and ICE to enforce our immigration laws and catch criminal aliens — including murders and rapists — who have illegally come into our country,” the Department of Homeland Security said in a statement Tuesday. “Criminals will no longer be able to hide in America’s schools and churches to avoid arrest.”
School officials in California, however, are not required to assist immigration agencies with the apprehension of any student or their family, even if they are identified in an ICE administrative warrant, according to guidance issued by California District Attorney General Rob Bonta.
The LBUSD webpage also includes advice and resources for families. The district urges staff, teachers, students and parents to immediately refer ICE agents to the school administrator and noted that LBUSD employees have been directed to “not share any information about students, families or staff unless instructed by the Office of General Counsel.”
LBUSD recommends families take steps to be prepared if immigration agents move on the city, including updating emergency contacts with the school with multiple trusted adults completing a “family preparedness plan;” saving important numbers such as the school office and afterschool program providers; and reading up on their rights under the U.S. constitution.
If a family member is detained, the district recommends contacting “these trusted organizations for legal advice and support:”
- Long Beach Forward, 562-436-4800
- ÓRALE, 562-276-0267
- Legal Aid Foundation, 800-399-4529
- Long Beach Residents Empowered, 877-262-4751
- Los Angeles County Office of Education, 562-419-5275
The district also recommends downloading the Immigrant Legal Resources Center’s Red Cards.
“When interrogated by federal immigration officials, you have the right to stay silent,” the district site reads. “Hand the Red Card to the officer and remember that you do not have to answer any questions.”
In a letter posted to the website, LBUSD Superintendent Jill Baker noted that the district is “guided” by Vision 2035, which “shapes our efforts to create thriving futures for all students.”
“Our collective strength lies in our diversity, and we remain committed to ensuring that every member of our community feels valued, welcomed and supported,” Baker wrote.
“Immigrants play a vital role in the story of our district and the story of California,” Baker continued. “Many of our students and families bring languages, traditions and experiences that add to the rich fabric of our schools. Their perspectives inspire us, their aspirations remind us of our purpose and their contributions elevate us all.”
Editor's note: This story has been updated to say Stevenson is an elementary school, not a middle school.
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