Dear Families,
Welcome back to school! I am writing to share important information on our efforts to support the safety and learning of all of our students, especially for our immigrant and undocumented families. As an immigrant myself, I want to be clear: New York City Public Schools (NYCPS) welcomes and serves every child, regardless of immigration status.
Our schools belong to all of our families. NYCPS does not ask about or track the immigration status for our students. We protect student information, and non-local law enforcement, including Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), is not permitted to access our students, schools, or records unless required by law and after consultation with NYCPS attorneys.
We know that immigration-related concerns can create uncertainty for children and families. We also recognize that some members of our school communities may be affected by changes to immigration programs, including Temporary Protected Status (TPS). Your school is here to support you. If you or a family member has questions or concerns about changes that could impact your family, talk to your Principal to connect you with Project Open Arms. Through Project Open Arms and our city partners, families can access Know Your Rights information and free, confidential immigration legal assistance to help them understand their options and connect with trusted resources.
As the school year begins, we also encourage families to make sure their school's emergency contact information is up to date and to review the resources available through NYCPS's Project Open Arms. Families have access to free translation and interpretation services if needed. For more information, visit schools.nyc.gov/ProjectOpenArms.
Additionally, NYCPS continues to partner with the Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs (MOIA). We encourage families to use the MOIA Legal Support Hotline at 1-800-354-0365 which is free, safe, and confidential or visit nyc.gov/immigrants to learn more.
I am proud to welcome you and your children to the 2026–27 school year. Every student deserves to learn in a school where they feel safe, valued, and supported.
In partnership,
Kamar H. Samuels
Chancellor
For all other languages please visit: https://www.schools.nyc.gov/about-us/messages-for-families
Para todos los demás idiomas, por favor visite:https://www.schools.nyc.gov/about-us/messages-for-families
Para todos los demás idiomas, por favor visite:https://www.schools.nyc.gov/about-us/messages-for-families
لجميع اللغات الأخرى، يرجى زيارة:https://www.schools.nyc.gov/about-us/messages-for-families
Pour toutes les autres langues, veuillez consulter :https://www.schools.nyc.gov/about-us/messages-for-families
