Lawndale district outlines immigration resources, confidentiality protections and caregiver affidavit option

District leaders described a set of immigration resources and practical steps for families at the ELAC meeting, including presentations and handouts from Legal Aid Foundation and the Los Angeles County Office of Education and district‑prepared materials translated into multiple languages.

Tracy Pamellia, assistant superintendent for educational services, said the district has compiled presentations, handouts and a “preparation plan” that include guidance on what to do if immigration officers appear in the community and a list of trusted legal service providers. Pamellia said the materials will be distributed via ParentSquare and in print and encouraged parents to review them.

On privacy and school data: Pamellia told attendees the district does not ask about immigration status and said student records are protected. In the meeting she said, “Just think about when you bring your child to school, your child is safe, and we don't ask questions about your citizenship.” Staff also referenced FERPA as the federal protection that limits release of student information.

Caregiver affidavits and red cards: Staff explained a caregiver affidavit (a written designation of a person who can care for a child if a parent is detained) and said copies are available; they noted the affidavit need not be notarized. The district also said it ordered printed “red cards” that parents can present to officers with suggested language if they choose not to speak to immigration authorities; the cards will be distributed to schools when they arrive.

Community actions and contacts: Staff asked parents to keep emergency contact information current and suggested listing at least one contact who does not live in the same household. The meeting referenced a hotline number in the handout for reporting immigration enforcement sightings but did not provide a public number during the meeting; parents were told to contact community liaisons or social workers for printed resources and follow‑up.

Ending: Pamellia and staff invited parents to take extra flyers and to contact community liaisons or district social workers for individualized support and legal‑services referrals.