The fear is real. Across the United States, families—both undocumented and those with legal status—are living under the shadow of possible deportation. The mere threat of ICE raids has created a ripple effect in schools and churches, turning what should be safe spaces into grounds of anxiety.
The most devastating consequence of ICE raids is the toll they take on children. During a recent interview on NewsNation, one of our immigration attorneys, Katherine Del Rosario, discussed family separation policies and the possibility of ICE entering schools. She raised a critical question: How do we balance policy enforcement with compassion and the rights of children?
The Impact on Schools
One of the most heart-wrenching aspects of this issue is its effect on schools. Teachers are being forced to prepare for worst-case scenarios: documenting emergency contacts, medical conditions, and even a child’s favorite toy—just in case a student loses a parent to deportation.
This fear doesn’t just affect undocumented children. As one superintendent shared, even students from documented immigrant families worry about being targeted. This constant anxiety disrupts learning, damages trust, and leaves lasting trauma.
The Role of Educators
As Katherine said in her interview:
“We already ask so much of our teachers. We all know that they do so much more than instruction. They play social workers, surrogate families, and now you’re asking them to prepare for ICE raids? It’s unconscionable.”
Teachers already wear many hats. Expecting them to manage the emotional and psychological fallout of ICE raids distracts from their ability to teach and puts them in an untenable position.
Policies vs. People
ICE currently has policies meant to avoid targeting sensitive locations like schools and churches, but policies can change from one administration to the next. The damage is already done. Communities are scrambling in fear, unsure of what comes next.
Deporting parents of children who have only known life in the U.S. shatters families and creates a cycle of trauma that extends far beyond the immediate impact. Many argue that this is simply about enforcing the law. But laws must also account for the human cost and acknowledge the reality that children bear the brunt of these policies.
The Bigger Picture
This issue goes beyond politics; it’s a question about how much we value the wellbeing of children. The fear instilled in children today can affect their mental health, academic performance, and future prospects.
American history is rooted in immigration, but the current system offers few legal pathways, forcing families to make impossible choices. Instead of punishing children and families, we need comprehensive immigration reform that addresses the root causes of migration and offers real solutions.
What You Can Do
Grassroots support is critical to change. Share these stories. Talk to your community. Reach out to your representatives and advocate for humane immigration policies. Together, we can work toward solutions that uphold both the law and our shared humanity.
Children deserve to grow up without the fear of losing their parents. Let’s work together to ensure they can. At McEntee Law Group, we are committed to supporting immigrants and their families during these uncertain times.
