Immigration Enforcement Activities: Frequently Asked Questions

Overview

Updated March 7, 2025

Santa Rosa Junior College affirms that all students, faculty, and staff—regardless of immigration status— have a right to privacy and the inalienable right to attend campuses which are safe, secure and peaceful. The California Supreme Court has affirmed that an immigrant student’s right to an equal educational opportunity is “a vitally important right in our society.” Protections are expressly codified in California law to assure educational access for all, regardless of a student’s immigration status.

SRJC Instructions and Resources for SRJC Immigration Enforcement Activities - GUIDES

Recent SRJC District Communications

Relevant SRJC Board Policies & Procedures

Student & Community Resources

Rapid Respond Hotline 

If immigration comes to your home, work, or neighborhood, or if there are ICE raids nearby, call the North Bay Rapid Response Hotline at 707-800-4544

Site-Specific Student Support Contacts

For immediate assistance, contact the following representatives for each site:

Santa Rosa Campus – Office of Vice President of Student Services, Dr. Molly Senecal (msenecal@santarosa.edu, 707-524-1647)
Petaluma Campus – Office of Executive Dean, Dr. Matthew Long (mlong@santarosa.edu, 707-778-3930)
Roseland Campus – Office of the Director of Roseland/Southwest, Hector Delgado (hdelgado@santarosa.edu, 707-527-4695)
Public Safety Training Center – Office of the Supervising Dean, Josh Adams (jadams2@santarosa.edu, 707-524-1731)
Shone Farm – Office of the Director of Shone Farm, Connor Murphy (cmurphy2@santarosa.edu, 707-535-3702)

California Community College #FindYourAlly

Free immigration legal services are available to students, staff, and faculty affiliated with the California community colleges through Find Your Ally. Priority for services is given to undocumented students, staff, and faculty. The immigration legal service providers offering services at the 65 campuses have developed scheduling, intake, and reporting processes that ensure student information remains confidential and protected.

Though all legal providers offer legal consultations and basic immigration benefit application assistance, some providers may offer additional services. Basic immigration legal assistance includes:

  • Legal consultations to screen for immigration relief
  • Deferred Action from Childhood Arrivals (DACA) renewals
  • Family-based petitions
  • Naturalization/citizenship applications

 

Visit the California Community Colleges Undocumented Student Legal Services website to access these and other relevant resources.

Download Your Redcard

Red Cards from the Immigrant Legal Resource Center. All people in the United States, regardless of immigration status, have certain rights and protections under the U.S. Constitution. Red Cards help people assert their rights and defend themselves in many situations, such as when immigration enforcement officials go to a home. These are available in multiple languages. Download and print cards here:

General Immigration Concerns

The Undocu · Immigrant · Dream Center is a “one-stop-shop” for undocumented students. Stop by to receive help in navigating matters related to AB540 admissions, financial aid, DACA renewals, referrals to Academic Counseling, EOPS, and other resources.

 

 

Does California law provide any protections to undocumented students?

Yes, undocumented students in California have several rights and protections under state law, ensuring access to education, financial aid, and other opportunities regardless of their immigration status. For example, state law permits certain undocumented students to pay in-state tuition instead of higher nonresident tuition. Additionally, the California Dream Act allows undocumented students access to state financial aid, including grants, scholarships, and fee waivers. These programs are run by the state, which means they are outside the domain of federal authority. Your college will continue supporting these programs and promoting equitable educational access for all students.

 

Does SRJC share my personal information, such as my application for financial aid or in-state tuition, with immigration authorities?

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) protects the privacy of student education records. Student education records collected by Santa Rosa Junior College are subject to FERPA. SRJC treats student education records, including immigration status, as confidential and will not share these records with immigration authorities unless required by a valid subpoena or court order.

 

I am an international student. What could immigration enforcement officers want from me?

As an international student, immigration enforcement officers may ask for proof of your legal status in the United States, such as your visa, passport, and Form I-20 (for F-1 students) or DS-2019 (for J-1 students). SRJC recommends international students keep a copy of their passport, visa, I-94, and Form I-20/DS-2019 with them or accessible at all times. International students should also ensure that their SEVIS record is active and up to date through SRJC’s International Student Program. If you are concerned or have legal questions, contact the International Student Program or an immigration attorney for guidance.


Does SRJC share information about international students?

Federal law requires Santa Rosa Junior College to report limited information about international students on F-1, J-1, or M visas through a government database known as SEVIS, part of the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). SRJC must retain and, upon the request of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), produce specific information about international students on student visas. Otherwise, the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) protects the privacy of student education records from disclosure without student consent or valid, legal requirement.

Campus Safety

What steps is SRJC taking to ensure undocumented students are safe and protected from immigration enforcement activities on campus?

Santa Rosa Junior College has implemented measures to safeguard undocumented students. SRJC has designated itself as a “safe haven,” meaning District Police will not collaborate with immigration enforcement agencies like ICE or U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to conduct immigration enforcement activities. SRJC also adheres to California’s “Sanctuary State” laws, which limit cooperation with immigration authorities. Employees should refer any inquiries from immigration enforcement officers to the Office of the President. If approached by immigration enforcement officers on campus, SRJC recommends employees respond by stating: “I am not impeding progress; I am reaching out to get the proper person to assist.”
 

Will SRJC District Police work with law enforcement officers conducting immigration enforcement activities?

Santa Rosa Junior College adheres to state law, which limits cooperation between local law enforcement agencies and immigration authorities. District Police do not engage in immigration enforcement activities. Their focus is on maintaining a safe and secure campus environment. District Police will not contact, detain, question or arrest an individual solely based on suspected undocumented immigration status, nor will they attempt to discover the immigration status of any individual. They also will not engage in joint efforts with immigration enforcement authorities, such as ICE or U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), to investigate, detain, or arrest individuals for violations of federal immigration law. However, if immigration enforcement activities occur on campus, District Police may provide support to the Office of the President to monitor the safety of the campus community.

In cases where other federal law enforcement agencies, such as the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) or Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), pursue criminal suspects on campus, District Police may cooperate with those efforts in accordance with certain criminal law enforcement responsibilities.

 

Can SRJC prevent immigration enforcement officers from coming on campuses and District property?

Generally, no. Santa Rosa Junior College is a public institution, meaning much of the District’s campuses and property are public spaces, including outdoor spaces, parking lots, walkways, and common areas in buildings, which are open to the public. SRJC cannot prohibit law enforcement officers from conducting immigration enforcement activities in public spaces. 
 
However, many areas of the District’s campuses and property are non-public spaces with restricted access. These areas include any space secured by key cards, locked doors, or secure points of entry such as administrative offices, staff workstations, faculty offices, equipment rooms, and storage areas. Non-public spaces also include classrooms while classes are in session, maintenance yard areas, and food preparation facilities not accessible to the public. 

 

Who can I contact on campus if I feel unsafe or need support related to my immigration status? 

Contact the Undocu Immigrant Dream Center which provides resources and a welcoming environment for students. The Undocu Immigrant Dream Center can help in connecting students with counselors, legal resources, and other support services. Students can contact the Student Services Office and mental health counselors.   

Legal Concerns

VIDAS provides free immigration services and including legal consultation, assistance with immigrant petitions, DACA, and much more.

https://dream.santarosa.edu/legal-services 

 

Should I still consider applying for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) or renewing my status if changes to the program are being proposed? 

DACA policies may change, and individual circumstances vary. Santa Rosa Junior College recommends that students consult a qualified immigration attorney to make an informed decision. Contact the Undocu Immigrant Dream Centerfor help in connecting with free or low-cost legal services for further discussion.

 

What should I do if immigration authorities approach me or a family member?

Know your rights: you have the right to remain silent, refuse entry to your home without a warrant, and seek legal representation. Carry a “Know Your Rights” card that explains your legal protections. Resources, including printed “Know your Rights” cards, are available at SRJC’s Undocu Immigrant Dream Center website to help you prepare for such situations.

 

Are free or low-cost legal resources available on campus or in the community to help me understand my rights? 

Yes, Santa Rosa Junior College works with local organizations to provide access to free or low-cost legal services. These vary from immigration lawyers to legal clinics to rights-education workshops. The California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office may also provide free immigration legal services to students, staff, and faculty on California community colleges campuses. 

Education and Career Pathways

Can federal immigration policy affect my ability to participate in work-study programs? 

Federal immigration policy may affect an undocumented student’s eligibility to participate in federally funded work-study programs. Students may discuss work-study program eligibility questions with Financial Aid. 

 

Does federal immigration policy affect transfer opportunities to four-year universities? 

Students still have the opportunity to transfer to four-year universities. Contact Santa Rosa Junior College transfer counselors or the Undocu Immigrant Dream Center for assistant with the transfer process. 

 

Will I be eligible for job opportunities after graduation if federal laws restrict undocumented workers? 

Employment opportunities may depend on your immigration status, but other pathways, such as starting a business or engaging in freelance work, may be options. California also actively supports undocumented students through entrepreneurship resources and access to professional development programs, recognizing that many undocumented individuals may not have traditional work authorization but can still start businesses and build careers through self-employment. 

Family and Community Concerns

What happens if a family member is detained or deported—will I lose access to financial aid or in-state tuition? 

No. Eligibility for in-state tuition or state financial aid is determined by the student’s circumstances and qualifications, not the status of the student’s family. Additionally, Santa Rosa Junior College may offer emergency grants and scholarships, in addition to many other basic needs resources, or refer students to local organizations that will help if the student is experiencing a tough financial situation because of family issues. 

 

Are there resources on campus to help me with family-related immigration challenges, such as locating a loved one in detention or accessing community services? 

Yes. Santa Rosa Junior College collaborates with local partners that assist students affected by family immigration situations. Contact the Undocu Immigrant Dream Center to be connected with legal resources and advocacy organizations. Additionally, SRJC counselors can provide services to support students through emotional and academic challenges. 

 

What can I do if my immigration status causes financial or emotional challenges that impact my education? 

Santa Rosa Junior College provides various resources to support students facing financial or emotional difficulties. SRJC may provide emergency grants, scholarships, and access to food pantries to help with immediate financial needs. SRJC can also offer counseling and mental health services for emotional support, and the Undocu Immigrant Dream Center can help students connect with additional resources to ensure students stay on track with their educational plans. 


 Employee Resources

Employee FAQs

Do law enforcement officers conducting immigration enforcement activities need a warrant to access campus or District facilities? 

Much of the District’s campuses and property are public spaces, such as outdoor spaces, parking lots, walkways, lobbies, and common areas in buildings, which are open to the public. SRJC cannot prohibit law enforcement officers from conducting immigration enforcement activities in public spaces. Immigration enforcement activities in public spaces do not need to provide a warrant to access these spaces.

However, many areas of the District’s campuses and property are non-public spaces with restricted access. These areas include any space secured by key cards, locked doors, or secure points of entry such as administrative offices, staff workstations, faculty offices, equipment rooms, and storage areas. Non-public spaces also include classrooms while classes are in session, maintenance areas, and food preparation facilities not open to the public. Law enforcement officers need a valid warrant to access non-public spaces on campus or in District facilities. No District employee may authorize immigration enforcement entry into non-public areas of District facilities unless expressly permitted by the Superintendent/President or designee.

If employees observe law enforcement officers conducting immigration enforcement activities anywhere on a District campus or in District facilities, they should immediately contact the Office of the President at 707-527-4431. If the Office is closed or staff is unavailable, contact District Police at 707-527-1000.

If officers declare that “exigent circumstances” exist, which is an emergency situation that allows law enforcement to enter without a warrant, and demand immediate access to District facilities, District employees should not attempt to prevent the officers from entering. District employees should immediately contact the Office of the President or District Police.

 

What should employees do if they observe law enforcement officers conducting immigration enforcement activities on campus?

No District employee may authorize immigration enforcement entry into non-public areas of District facilities unless expressly permitted by the Superintendent/President or designee. Employees should immediately contact the Office of the President at 707-527-4431. If the Office is closed or staff is unavailable, contact District Police at 707-527-1000. 

Employees should remain calm and polite. Employees should endeavor to document any immigration enforcement activities they observe, if possible. Employees who are not directly engaged by the officer should maintain a safe distance, refrain from interfering in any way, and avoid initiating conversation or questioning the officer. They should not obstruct, delay, or otherwise impede the officer’s activities, either physically or verbally.

 

What should employees do if an immigration enforcement officer asks to enter non-public areas on campus or District property (e.g. a classroom or private office)?

No District employee may authorize immigration enforcement entry into non-public areas of District facilities unless expressly permitted by the Superintendent/President or designee. Employees should ask the immigration enforcement officer to wait to enter any non-public areas until contacting the Office of the President at 707-527-4431. If the Office is closed or unavailable, contact District Police at 707-527-1000. 

If officers declare that exigent circumstances exist, which is an emergency situation that allows them to enter without a warrant, and demand immediate access to District facilities, District employees should not attempt to prevent the officers from entering. District employees should immediately contact the Office of the President.

Employees should not accept a warrant or subpoena and should instead refer officers to the Office of the President.  Employees should communicate to the immigration enforcement officer that they are not authorized to accept a warrant or subpoena on behalf of the District.  If approached by law enforcement officers conducting immigration enforcement activities on campus, SRJC recommends employees respond by stating: “I am not impeding progress; I am reaching out to get the proper person to assist.”

 

Can law enforcement officers arrest a student on a California community college campus?

Law enforcement officers can arrest a student on a California community college campus, but there are specific legal guidelines and protections in place. Undocumented individuals have additional protections under California law. If immigration enforcement officers attempt an arrest, they must present a valid warrant, and Santa Rosa Junior College is not obligated to assist in immigration enforcement activities. 

No District employee may authorize immigration enforcement entry into non-public areas of District facilities unless expressly permitted by the Superintendent/President or designee. Employees should ask the law enforcement officer to wait to enter any non-public areas until contacting the Office of the President at 707-527-4431. If the Office is closed or unavailable, contact District Police at 707-527-1000. 

 

How should employees respond if an immigration enforcement officer asks for information about a student’s education record?

Employees are not authorized to provide student information to anyone who is not authorized to receive it. Employees who receive a request from immigration enforcement officers, or anyone else who is not authorized to receive information, for any information about a student or for access to non-public spaces of campus or District property should contact the Office of the President at 707-527-4431. If the Office is closed or staff is unavailable, contact District Police at 707-527-1000. 

Consistent with FERPA, the District cannot share student educational records with immigration enforcement officers without a student’s prior consent unless a narrow and specific FERPA exception applies. SRJC recommends employees respond by stating, “I understand you are requesting student information, which I am not authorized to provide,” then refer the officers to the Office of the President.

 

Are community college employees required to disclose students' immigration statuses to law enforcement officers? 

No. Under both federal law (FERPA) and California law, community colleges cannot disclose students' immigration status with law enforcement officers, including immigration enforcement officers, without the student’s consent unless legally required by a valid subpoena or court order. 

 

What protections do undocumented students have at California community colleges?

Undocumented students in California are afforded several protections. Undocumented students cannot be denied access to public education based on their immigration status. Furthermore, state law and District policy limit the role of District employees in assisting federal immigration enforcement efforts. The Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program may also provide legal protections to students, if applicable. SJRC strongly recommends undocumented students seek legal advice to understand their rights and protections. 

 

Will SRJC District Police work with federal immigration enforcement officers to apprehend and remove individuals from campus?

Santa Rosa Junior College adheres to state law, which limits cooperation between local law enforcement agencies and immigration authorities. District Police do not engage in immigration enforcement activities. Their focus is on maintaining a safe and secure campus environment. District Police will not contact, detain, question or arrest an individual solely based on suspected undocumented immigration status, nor will they attempt to discover the immigration status of any individual. They also will not engage in joint efforts with immigration enforcement authorities, such as ICE or U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), to investigate, detain, or arrest individuals for violations of federal immigration law. 
However, if immigration enforcement activities occur on campus, District Police may provide support to the Office of the President to monitor the safety of the campus community. 

In cases where other federal law enforcement agencies, such as the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) or Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), pursue criminal suspects on campus, District Police may cooperate with those efforts in accordance with certain criminal law enforcement responsibilities. 

 

Can I document an immigration enforcement officer’s information and actions by recording them on my smartphone? 

California law allows an individual to record a law enforcement official, including an immigration enforcement officer, discharging functions in public spaces. The recording should not be done secretly nor in any way that may interfere with the officer’s functions. 

 

Can I lock my classroom door if I believe law enforcement officers are conducting immigration enforcement activities on campus? 

Unless there is an active safety threat, classroom doors should remain unlocked. Employees should not obstruct, delay or otherwise impede an officer’s activities. If immigration enforcement officers are on campus, remain calm and follow SRJC’s outlined protocols.   

Immigration Enforcement Guidance & Information
Financial Aid
Warrant and Subpoena Document Samples

Please note: no employee outside of the Office of the President is authorized to accept legal documents from immigration enforcement officers. We are providing these samples for reference only. Refer to the Employee FAQs on how to respond to requests from immigration enforcement officers.

From the California Attorney General's guide Promoting a Safe and Secure Campus for All

Common Terminology

Assembly Bill (AB) 21
Assembly Bill 21 (Kalra, 2017) seeks to mitigate the impacts of potential federal changes to immigration enforcement policies and to ensure students have access to their financial aid, legal representation, and their constitutional right to due process. AB 21 also required that the CA Attorney General and the higher education segments (including private universities) adopt a model policy developed by the Attorney General or an equivalent policy, limiting assistance with immigration enforcement to the fullest extent possible consistent with federal and state law.

Source: California Community Colleges Dreamers Project: Complete Report  

 

Assembly Bill (AB) 540
Assembly Bill 540 was passed in 2001 and grants students who meet certain criteria an exemption from paying nonresident tuition.

Source: California Community Colleges Dreamers Project: Complete Report  

 

CA Dream Act (AB 130 and 131)

The California Dream Act (Assembly Bill 130 and Assembly Bill 131) allows undocumented and nonresident documented students who meet certain requirements to apply for and receive:

  • Scholarships
  • State-administered financial aid
  • Community college fee waivers
  • Cal grants

Make sure your high school has verified your GPA. Learn more at California Student Aid Commission, or call (888) 224-7268.

 

Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA)
DACA is a federal program for people who came to the US as children and meet several eligibility requirements. DACA provides a two-year deportation reprieve and applicants may apply for a work authorization permit, which is subject to renewal. It does not provide lawful status. Only adults who were 31 years old or younger on June 15, 2012 qualify for this program. More information about DACA

 

DREAMer
The Development, Relief, and Education for Alien Minors (DREAM) Act (S.1291) legislation was introduced in 2001 as a bipartisan bill in the Senate. The legislative goal was to provide a means for undocumented immigrants who arrived in the US as children to gain a pathway to permanent legal status, provided those individuals achieved certain milestones.


The term Dreamer refers to undocumented students who were brought to the US by their parents as minors and either entered the country without inspection or overstayed their visas. They face unique legal uncertainties and limitations within the US educational system.

 

In-State Tuition (AB 540, AB 2000, SB 68)
California laws that allow qualifying students, who would otherwise not be eligible for in-state tuition, to pay in-state tuition at UC, CSU, or California Community Colleges.

  • Assembly Bill 540 (AB 540), passed in 2001 to amend Section 68130.5 of the Education Code. It grants students meeting certain eligibility criteria an exemption from paying nonresident tuition at the CCC. Students granted this exemption will receive in-state CA tuition rates.
  • Assembly Bill 2000 (AB2000), passed in 2014 to amend Section 68130.5 of the Education Code. This is an expansion of AB540. It increases the scope of student eligibility for students who graduated early from a California High School with the equivalent of three or more years of credits. If a student graduates early, they must have attended CA high elementary, middle school, and/or high school for a cumulative total of 3 or more years. It grants students meeting certain eligibility criteria an exemption from paying nonresident tuition at the CCC. Students granted this exemption will receive in-state CA tuition rates
  • Assembly Bill 68 (SB68), passed in 2017 to amend Section 68130.5 of Education Code., This changed the criteria for students eligible for a nonresident tuition exemption, as previously defined in Assembly Bill 540 (2001). Senate Bill 68 expands the requirements of AB 540/ AB 2000 to include attendance at California Community Colleges and attainment of an associate's degree.

 

Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)

An ITIN is a tax-processing number issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). ITINs are issued regardless of immigration status and are used for federal tax reporting only. These numbers are not intended to serve any other purpose. An ITIN can be used to apply to college, but is not required.

 

International Student

International students include those who currently hold specific visas. Undocumented students are not considered international applicants because many do not qualify for a visa and do not have to go through the international admission process.

 

Mixed-Status Family

A mixed status family is one in which some family members are US citizens and/or legal residents while others remain undocumented. For example:

  • A documented student with undocumented parents
  • A documented student with undocumented siblings

 

Non-Citizen

The term non-citizen applies to students who:

  • Are not US citizens or permanent residents
  • Do not hold a valid visa
  • Are not seeking a visa for study or documentation for residency in the US

 

Overstayed Visa
An individual with an overstayed visa is one who has stayed in the US after their tourist, visitor, or student visa has expired.

 

Senate Bill (SB) 54
Senate Bill 54 (De Leon, 2017) ensures that no state or local resources are diverted to fuel any attempt by the federal government to carry out mass deportations and that schools, hospitals, and courthouses are safe spaces for everyone in the community.

 

Senate Bill (SB) 68
SB 68 is a law that expands on AB 540 to enable students to count years spent at a California Community College and adult education towards AB 540 eligibility. Additionally, SB 68 allows the completion of an associate degree or satisfaction of the minimum requirements to transfer to the University of California or California State University as sufficient for students to qualify for in-state tuition and financial aid.

 

Temporary Protected Status (TPS)
The Secretary of Homeland Security may designate a foreign country for TPS due to conditions in the country that temporarily prevent the country’s nationals from returning safely, or in certain circumstances, where the country is unable to handle the return of its nationals adequately. The US Citizenship and Immigration Services may grant TPS to eligible nationals of certain countries (or parts of countries), who are already in the United States. Eligible individuals without nationality who last resided in the designated country may also be granted TPS.

 

UndocuAlly
UndocuAlly is a term adopted to refer to allies for undocumented young people.

 

Undocu-friendly
Undocu-friendly is a term that refers to institutions that have policies or systems in place that aim to support undocumented students.

 

Undocumented
The term ‘undocumented immigrant’ refers to anyone residing in any given country without legal documentation. This may include people who:

  • Entered the US without inspection
  • Entered the US legally but overstayed
  • Have or previously had Deferred Action for Childhood Arrival (DACA) status
  • Are in the process of legalizing

 

U Visa/U-Visa/U Non-Immigrant Status
U-visa, or the U nonimmigrant status (U visa), is set aside for victims of certain crimes who have suffered mental or physical abuse and are helpful to law enforcement or government officials in the investigation or prosecution of criminal activity.