Charleston, SC, August 13, 2025
News Summary
As the school year approaches, students in Charleston County are experiencing heightened anxiety due to concerns surrounding mixed immigration status and recent policy changes. The Department of Homeland Security’s removal of restrictions on immigration enforcement in schools has amplified fears among families about the safety of their children. In response, a coalition of school districts, including Charleston County School District (CCSD), has filed a lawsuit addressing these concerns. Despite the challenges, CCSD is committed to ensuring a safe learning environment for all students, independent of immigration status.
Charleston, SC
Students across Charleston County are facing feelings of anxiety as they prepare to return to school amidst growing concerns related to mixed immigration status. With recent changes to federal immigration enforcement policies, many families have heightened fears regarding the safety and security of their children in educational settings.
In January, the Department of Homeland Security lifted restrictions on immigration enforcement in “sensitive locations,” including schools. This policy change coincided with President Donald Trump’s second term and has contributed to a climate of fear among students and families nationwide.
A coalition representing 78 large school districts, including the Charleston County School District (CCSD), has filed a lawsuit in response to these anxieties. The lawsuit emphasizes the detrimental effects of the new policy, citing increased absenteeism, anxiety among students, bullying, and an overall environment of concern for many families.
Despite these challenges, CCSD leadership is focused on ensuring that all students feel safe attending school, regardless of their immigration status. Michael Reidenbach, the CCSD’s executive director of security, has highlighted the importance of open communication with law enforcement to prevent any disruptions within schools. He has reassured families that immigration enforcement officials cannot remove students from schools without a judicial order.
Furthermore, CCSD does not collect or share any information regarding the immigration status of students or their families. U.S. law guarantees that all K–12 students have the right to attend public school, regardless of immigration status. However, fears related to potential immigration raids have led some parents to keep their children home from school, with reports indicating that some parents have been arrested while dropping off their children at educational facilities.
Up to this point, there have been no reported incidents of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activities within Charleston County schools. District leaders are urging families with concerns to reach out to school principals, counselors, or advocates for assistance and support.
Impact on the Hispanic Community
The Hispanic community within CCSD is particularly impacted by these issues, with school leaders noting improvements but also ongoing struggles within this demographic. Chronic absenteeism has been identified as a critical factor contributing to the achievement gap for Hispanic students specifically. School district officials are actively working to address a variety of challenges affecting families, including homelessness, which remains a pressing issue for many in the area.
Collaboration with non-profit organizations is underway to find solutions related to housing instability for the affected families. In addition, community leaders are hosting public meetings focused on discussing the challenges and strategies needed to support students from vulnerable backgrounds. CCSD leadership, including Superintendent Anita Huggins, has consistently conveyed the message that schools are safe and secure for all students.
As the new school year approaches, Charleston County’s school officials are committed to fostering an inclusive environment where every student can thrive, regardless of their background or immigration status.
FAQ
What are the main concerns for Charleston County students returning to school?
Students are facing anxiety related to mixed immigration status, particularly due to recent changes in federal immigration enforcement policies.
What change in policy has heightened fears among families?
The Department of Homeland Security lifted restrictions on immigration enforcement in “sensitive locations,” such as schools, which has led to increased anxiety and absenteeism.
How does CCSD support students concerning immigration status?
CCSD ensures that all students feel safe attending school and does not collect or share immigration status information. U.S. law mandates that every K–12 student has the right to attend public school.
What additional challenges are affecting students?
Many families are also facing issues related to homelessness and housing instability, which school officials are working to address in collaboration with non-profit organizations.
Are there any ICE activities reported in Charleston County schools?
There have been no reported ICE activities within Charleston County schools, and school officials are dedicated to providing a secure environment for all students.
Key Features of the Post
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Student Anxiety | Heightened anxiety among students due to mixed immigration status concerns. |
| Policy Changes | Removal of restrictions on immigration enforcement in schools. |
| Legal Actions | A coalition of 78 school districts has filed a lawsuit over the impact of immigration concerns. |
| CCSD’s Commitment | All students are ensured safety and privacy regarding immigration status. |
| Community Support | Efforts are being made to collaborate with non-profits to address housing instability. |
| Impact on Hispanic Community | Chronic absenteeism affecting achievement gaps within this demographic. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Charleston County Schools Enhance Security Measures
Charleston County Schools Prepare for New School Year
Cancellation of Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day
Charleston Schools See Surge in Career and Technical Education Enrollment
Juvenile Arrested for Illegal Handgun and Drugs in North Charleston
Anita Huggins Honored with Community Impact Award
Charleston County School District Prepares for New School Year
Charleston, S.C. Hosts Three-Day Juneteenth Event at Magnolia Plantation and Gardens
Closure of Cannons Campground Road Bridge Disrupts Spartanburg
Charleston County Schools Launch Elevation Initiative
Additional Resources
- Live 5 News: Charleston Schools Work to Get Students Back in Classrooms Amid Immigration Fear
- Charleston City Paper: Immigration Fears Reinforce Education Gaps in County Schools
- ABC News 4: Locals Gather to Stand With Charleston’s Immigrant Communities Amidst Fears
- Post and Courier: Immigration Concerns in Charleston SC
- Wikipedia: Immigration in the United States
Author: STAFF HERE CHARLESTON
The CHARLESTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREcharleston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charleston, Charleston County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Spoleto Festival USA, Charleston Wine + Food Festival, and the MOJA Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce and the Charleston Museum, plus leading businesses in tourism and maritime industries that power the local economy such as South Carolina Ports Authority and the Charleston Visitor Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaiken.com, HEREbeaufort.com, HEREchapin.com, HEREcharleston.com, HEREclinton.com, HEREcolumbia.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, HEREgreenwood.com, HEREgreenville.com, HEREhiltonhead.com, HEREirmo.com, HEREmyrtlebeach.com, HEREnewberry.com, HERErockhill.com, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
