With the potential impact of a stricter immigration policy under a new administration of Donald Trump in the United States, many students, worried about the possibility of deportation, sought answers and solace in the school environment, according to a report by NBC News. These fears have already resulted in the absence of students and increased anxiety among immigrant families, especially in Latino communities.

The narrative of the NBC story highlights the dilemma faced by educators, who must balance their commitment to the well-being of students and the risk of backlash when addressing sensitive policy issues. Some teachers report that, in addition to answering students' questions, they face the anguish of parents who fear becoming targets of immigration authorities.

While federal laws guarantee the right to education for all children, regardless of immigration status, and prohibit the disclosure of personal information without justification, there is concern about the possible end of the policy that protects "sensitive locations" like schools from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations. Experts say these protections are crucial to the security and stability of immigrant communities but acknowledge that changes in policy could exacerbate already existing fears.

Schools, for their part, are trying to prepare for possible mass deportations. Initiatives include training for educators, distribution of emergency packages to families, and measures to ensure that children are not left helpless in the event of their parents' detention. In states like Mississippi, precedents from 2019 show how school communities have been forced to deal with the humanitarian consequences of immigration actions, adapting their strategies to protect vulnerable students, according to the publication.

Despite efforts to offer support, many educators feel the weight of an emotional and practical responsibility that goes beyond their usual duties. In addition, the reluctance of some schools to publicly address the topic reflects the fear of reprisals or stigmatization. The situation demonstrates how the school environment, generally considered a safe space, is being affected by broader political tensions, putting educators, students and their families at the center of debates on immigration and human rights.