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In Illinois, a new law passed in August 2025 strengthens protections for immigrant families by guaranteeing every child’s right to attend public school, no matter their citizenship or immigration status. The Safe Schools for All Act, signed by Gov. JB Pritzker, makes those federal protections clear in state law and requires districts statewide to develop procedures for handling immigration enforcement on school grounds.
Every child has the right to go to school — no matter their status
The Safe Schools for All Act ensures that schools cannot deny enrollment, participation or services to any student based on their or their parents’ citizenship or immigration status. According to Chalkbeat, the law builds on the 1982 Supreme Court decision Plyler v. Doe, which established that undocumented children are entitled to a free public education. Lawmakers said the measure removes confusion for districts and families about what documentation can be requested during enrollment.
Every child in Illinois has had this right under federal law for decades, but the new act cements it in state law, making those protections clearer and more enforceable for immigrant families and schools across Illinois.
Chicago Public Schools says families’ privacy comes first
Chicago Public Schools has reaffirmed that it does not ask families about their immigration status and will not share student information with federal immigration agencies unless required by a judicial warrant or parent consent.
In August, the district sent a letter to families reminding them that CPS is a “safe and supportive” school system and that all students — regardless of background — are welcome. CPS also recently updated its family-resources page to include a section on immigrant rights and legal referrals.
What to do if immigration agents show up at school
Schools are now required to prepare enforcement procedures. Under the new law that took effect this fall, Illinois school districts are now beginning the process of drafting detailed procedures for how they will respond if immigration or law-enforcement agents seek access to school grounds. According to the Illinois General Assembly, districts have until July 1, 2026, to finalize these plans. Each district must identify staff who are authorized to review warrants, handle requests and communicate with families. The law also makes clear that schools cannot allow immigration-enforcement on campus without a judicial warrant, and any contact must be documented.
If federal immigration officers arrive at a school, the law and CPS policies require that they present a valid criminal warrant signed by a judge. Administrative ICE warrants or “detainers” do not meet that standard. School administrators are trained to contact CPS’s law department before granting any access. Families can also contact ICIRR for free legal guidance or emergency support.
How parents can stay informed and prepared
CPS and immigrant advocates encourage families to maintain updated emergency contacts in case a parent is unavailable or detained during the school day. You can also ask your child’s school for translated documents or interpreters for meetings and notices — services that schools are required by law to provide. If you’re ever asked about your immigration status or Social Security number during enrollment, you have the right to decline. Schools can only request documentation to confirm your child’s age and residency — not citizenship or immigration details.
“These are community schools,” said Karina Ayala-Bermejo, president of ICIRR, in a statement following the law’s passage. “Every child belongs in a classroom, not in fear.”
