Immigration

Immigration Information & Resources

On January 23, 2025, Maryland State Superintendent of Schools Dr. Carey Wright reaffirmed that every Maryland student—regardless of immigration status—has the right to receive the educational support they need from their public school system. She also shared guidance on student rights, school registration processes, and how to respond to requests from immigration or law enforcement officials. 

Students, parents/guardians, and staff should know that:

• All children have a right to equal access to a free public education, regardless of the immigration status of the child or their parent/guardian.
• While schools may require proof of residency within the district, information about citizenship or immigration status is never needed for school enrollment.
• Federal and state laws protect education records and personal information. These laws generally require written consent from parents/guardians before releasing information, unless it is for educational purposes, otherwise authorized by law, or in response to a court order or subpoena.
• Students, parents, and guardians have the right to report any incident of bullying, harassment, or intimidation to school administrators and complete the online Bullying, Harassment, of Intimidation Reporting Form.

Resources

The Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) has identified the following resources for families:

• Parents/guardians can update their child’s emergency contact information at school, including secondary contacts, to identify a trusted adult who can care for their child if they are detained or deported. They can also identify a “standby guardian” to care for their child if they are detained or deported, by completing this Maryland Judiciary form and providing a copy to schools, health care providers, and family members.
• Families trying to locate someone who has already been detained, may use the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detainee locator.
• Legal assistance is available from a variety of sources, including immigration lawyers in private practice, accredited representatives (non-attorneys who assist individuals in immigration proceedings), and legal-aid organizations:
  • The People's Law Library of Maryland
  • Immigration Advocates Network
• Several immigration organizations have prepared comprehensive guidance on preparing for and responding to immigration enforcement actions:
  • The People's Law Library of Maryland
  • ACLU Know Your Rights: Immigrant Rights Scenarios
  • Catholic Legal Immigration Network Rapid Response Toolkit
  • USAHello 2025 Immigration Guide