Statement from Dr. Bean
As an immigrant who arrived in the United States at the age of 4, I am deeply committed to the values this country represents, the laws that uphold those values, and the belief that every child deserves the chance to learn and succeed.
The United States Supreme Court and the California Supreme Court have both affirmed that all students, regardless of their immigration status, are entitled to a public education. Federal and state laws further protect the confidentiality of student information. While California law provides additional safeguards for undocumented students and their families, federal law governs immigration and border enforcement.
Recognizing that Orange County is home to many families with varying immigration statuses, we are closely examining federal policy changes related to immigration and their intersection with existing state laws. At the same time, as educators, we have an obligation to model the behavior we wish to instill in those we serve. This includes adhering to all applicable state and federal laws — whether or not we agree with them — while ensuring our schools remain safe and supportive environments where every student can thrive.
Questions may remain about the impacts of new federal policies and how they will be implemented, but our responsibility to support every student in our schools is both a legal and moral imperative, and our commitment remains clear and unwavering.
Dr. Stefan Bean
Orange County Superintendent of Schools
Information for schools and families
Frequently asked questions
Do Orange County school districts ask for information on families’ immigration status?
By law, schools and districts do not collect or maintain information about a student’s or family’s immigration status.
Do Orange County school districts coordinate with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)?
Schools and districts do not coordinate with ICE regarding immigration enforcement.
Will Orange County school districts share student records with ICE? If so, under what circumstances?
Student records are protected by federal and state privacy laws and cannot be shared with ICE without a court order or the explicit consent of a parent or guardian, except in limited legal circumstances.
Will Orange County school districts allow ICE to enter district facilities? If so, under what circumstances?
Under state law, immigration enforcement actions on school grounds are generally prohibited unless ICE presents a judicial warrant or meets specific legal criteria. Even in such cases, schools and districts are committed to following legal protocols to prioritize the safety and well-being of students and staff.
Additional resources
- The Crisis Text Line. The Crisis Text Line is the only 24/7, nationwide
crisis-intervention text message hotline. Text HOME to 741-741.
- OC WarmLine. Available 24/7, the OC WarmLine is a free and confidential telephone service providing emotional support and resources to Orange County residents. Call 714-991-6412 or visit
namioc.org/oc-warmline for more information.
- National Parent Helpline. This hotline provides emotional support and empowerment strategies to strengthen families. Call 1-855-4A PARENT(1-855-427-2736) 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on weekdays.
- 2-1-1 OC. This service connects Orange County’s most vulnerable residents with vital health and human service resources. Call 888-600-4357 or visit
www.211oc.org.
