June 9, 2025
Dear Parents and Guardians,
We want to take a moment to acknowledge and address recent events that may be causing concern in our community. We understand that there have been recent reports of immigration enforcement agencies conducting what they are calling “community wellness checks” both in neighborhoods and, in some cases, at school sites across Southern California.
While these visits have not occurred at any Santa Ana Unified schools, we know that even hearing about such activity can cause fear, confusion, and anxiety for students and families—especially those in immigrant communities. Please know that SAUSD remains committed to protecting the safety, dignity, and rights of every student and family. We also want to reassure you that our schools remain safe, supportive, and welcoming environments for all students and families—regardless of immigration status.
SAUSD is committed to fostering a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment for every student, family, and staff member. You may have seen banners posted at each school site reflecting the commitment of our school district.
As part of this ongoing effort, we are offering updated Know Your Rights workshops and Family Preparedness Plan sessions with legal counsel in the coming weeks. These sessions will provide guidance, answer questions, and help families feel informed and prepared.Upcoming training dates can be found on the SAUSD Family and Community Engagement website home page https://bit.ly/SAUSDFACEWS. You will also find resources at the bottom of the web page or can visit bit.ly/SAUSDKYR.
Additionally, SAUSD is continuing to distribute Red Cards—also known as Know Your Rights cards to all students. These cards, available in English and your child’s home language, are valuable tools that explain your constitutional rights. Knowing and asserting these rights can help protect you and your family. If you are in need of Know Your Rights red cards or Family Preparedness Plan materials, please speak to your School’s FACE liaison or visit your school’s wellness center. For materials, resources, or support such as mental health services, you can call the District FACE helpline at (714) 972-7660.
Key Rights Everyone Should Know
✅ If you are in your home, you do not need to open the door unless a law enforcement officer presents a valid, signed judicial warrant with correct name, address, date and signed by a judge.
✅ You have the right to remain silent.
✅ You have the right to an attorney and due process. Have the number of a lawyer available
✅ Do not sign any documents without legal advice.
✅ If stopped outside your home, ask if you are free to leave. If yes, do so calmly.
✅ Present a Red Card to law enforcement to assert your rights.
Download them in multiple languages at: ilrc.org/red-cards
Preparing Your Family
We encourage all families to be proactive by creating a Family Preparedness Plan, which may include:
📌 Keeping emergency contact information updated at your child’s school
📌 Designating a trusted adult to care for your child if needed
📌 Safely storing important documents (birth certificates, IDs, etc.)
📌 Having age-appropriate conversations with your children about emergency plans
Find a step-by-step guide here:
🔗 ilrc.org/resources/step-step-family-preparedness-plan
We remain committed to standing alongside our families and ensuring that all students feel safe, supported, and valued. If you have any questions or need assistance, please reach out to your school principal, counselor, Expanded Learning Staff or Family and Community Engagement (FACE) Liaison. In addition, you can contact the FACE Helpline at (714) 972-7660.
Thank you for being an essential and valued part of the SAUSD community.
Sincerely,
Dr. Lorraine Perez
Deputy Superintendent
Santa Ana Unified School District
