Information on Immigration for Parents and Schools

A: Paterson Public Schools have a strong policy limiting ICE access to schools. ICE agents are generally not allowed to enter school grounds without a judicial warrant or court order. School staff are instructed to challenge any ICE agent attempting to enter without proper documentation and to contact the District’s Superintendent, Dr. Laurie W. Newell’s office, immediately at (973)-321-0980.

For more Information, visit New Jersey Department of Education website.

A: No. Paterson is committed to protecting the confidentiality of student information, including immigration status. We do not collect this information and will not share it with ICE unless legally required to do so - a decision that will be made by Paterson Superintendent Dr. Laurie W. Newell, in consultation with their Legal Department.

For more Information, visit New Jersey Department of Education website.

A: If ICE agents come to your child's school, advise your child to:

• Remain calm.
• Go inform a school-based adult.
• Tell the adult to contact the Superintendent, Dr. Laurie Newell’s Office at (973)- 321-0980.
• Do not answer questions without an attorney.
• Do not sign documents without an attorney.

A: If any parents are detained during school hours, the district will keep students safe until an authorized adult can pick up the child. Please take this opportunity to update your emergency contact information for your students at your school.

For more Information, visit New Jersey Department of Education website.

A: Paterson Public Schools have a strong policy limiting ICE access to schools. ICE agents are generally not allowed to enter school grounds without a judicial warrant or court order. School staff are instructed to challenge any ICE agent attempting to enter without proper documentation and to contact the District’s Superintendent, Dr. Laurie W. Newell’s office, immediately at (973)-321-0980.

For more Information, visit New Jersey Department of Education website.

A: The NJDOE mandates that all school districts enroll students regardless of immigration status, in line with federal law (Plyler v. Doe) and state regulations (N.J.A.C. 6A:22-3.3). 

For more information on laws, visit New Jersey Department of Education website.

A: The NJDOE encourages school communities to continually improve their systems of support to ensure all students feel welcome and to best prepare for any circumstance that threatens the safety of its students.

For more information, visit New Jersey Department of Education website.

A: There are many resources available to support families who are experiencing trauma related to immigration status. At Paterson Public Schools, we are committed to ensuring all students and their families receive the support needed to address any emotional or academic challenges they may face. Our support systems are evaluated on an ongoing basis to ensure all needs are being met.

For more information on resources, visit the New Jersey Department of Education website.