Guidance for Students & Families

In January 2025, Attorney General Bonta issued guidance regarding the educational rights for immigrant students and their families:

  • Right to a Free Public Education: All children have a right to equal access to free public education, regardless of their or their parents'/guardians' immigration status.

  • Information Required for School Enrollment: Schools must accept a variety of documents from the student's parent or guardian to demonstrate proof of child's age or residency and schools are not required to keep a copy of the document used as proof of a child's age.

  • Confidentiality of Personal Information: Federal and state laws protect student education records and personal information. These laws generally require that schools obtain written consent from parents or guardians before releasing student information, unless the release of information is for educational purposes, is already public, or is in response to a court order or subpoena.

The complete Guide for Students and Families is available in the following languages:

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