Immigration Resources

This information was compiled and shared with collaboration from the Council of Great City Schools (CGCS) and CGCS member districts.

A Message from Jefferson County Public Schools 

At Jefferson County Public Schools (JCPS), we are deeply aware of the concerns and anxieties within our community, especially in light of national conversations surrounding immigration and deportation. We understand that these issues are far more than policy debates—they are personal, and they can create fear and uncertainty for many families.

We want to reassure all families that our schools will remain welcoming and inclusive spaces where every child, regardless of their immigration status, is treated with dignity and respect. Ensuring safe, supportive, and affirming environments for our students is a top priority for us. These efforts are critical to helping all of our students succeed academically, socially, and emotionally. At JCPS, every child is valued, and we are committed to their well-being and success.

Things you should know

All students are guaranteed the right to attend school.

Every child has the right to an education, regardless of immigration status, as guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution and upheld by the Supreme Court.

Jefferson County Public Schools welcomes all students. 


JCPS will not take any action that might discourage students from enrolling and participating in school, or that might lead to the exclusion of students, based on immigration status.

Jefferson County Public Schools protects student privacy.

JCPS does not ask about or disclose immigration status. The Federal Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) prevents schools from releasing students' education records, including information about immigration status.

Jefferson County Public Schools is a Safe Haven School District.

The Jefferson County Board of Education adopted a 2017 Resolution declaring JCPS a Safe Haven School District. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Family Safety Plan

Develop and keep a “Family Safety Plan” in a safe place for the care and custody of a student in case parents/guardians become unavailable due to arrest, detention, or some other reason. At a minimum, the plan will include: 

  • Updating the student’s emergency contact information: Families can update students’ emergency contact information as needed throughout the school year and provide alternative contacts if no parent or guardian is available. Contact Info Forms

  • Making childcare arrangements: Families should designate a trusted adult to care for their child(ren). They should discuss this plan in detail with the child(ren) and seek counsel from a legal organization on legal guardianship.  Here is a link to a Power of Attorney (POA) document.

  • Organize important documents: Families and students should know where to find important documentation, such as birth certificates, passports, ID cards, doctors’ contact information, medication lists, and lists of allergies.  (Family plan) Look at page 16 for important information to document.