As New York City’s students head back to public schools this September, immigrant families are forced to deal with the harsh reality of President Donald Trump’s escalating mass deportation and detention agenda.

But in New York, everyone between the ages of five to 21 has the right to free K-12 public education, regardless of their immigration status. Officials with the public schools want people to know that fact and not live in fear.

“New York City public schools stand with all of our families regardless of background or immigration status. Let me assure you our schools are safe places,” said NYC Public Schools Chancellor Melissa Aviles-Ramos at a press conference in Manhattan held by New York Immigration Coalition (NYIC) on August 27. “We are here to support our families.”

Aviles-Ramo

See Full Page