Undocumented Student Support
YOU BELONG HERE: CERRITOS COLLEGE STANDS WITH UNDOCUMENTED STUDENTS AND STUDENTS of MIXED STATUS FAMILIES:
Cerritos College leadership and the UndocuFalcon Scholars program is aware of the heightened concerns regarding ICE activity and enforcement. We want to ensure our students and community members that Cerritos College is here to support you.
Cerritos College: Preparedness Plan
If you believe that Federal Immigration Officials are on campus:
1. STAY CALM AND PRIORITIZE SAFETY
Remain calm, avoid confrontation, and do not attempt to physically interfere with
an officer. You have the right to seek guidance before answering questions or providing
information.
2. REPORT THE ENCOUNTER
If you witness or experience an ICE encounter on campus, submit a report using the
form on this webpage. For immediate campus safety concerns, contact Campus Police
at (562) 924-3618 or Ext. 2325
3. CONNECT WITH CAMPUS SUPPORT
If an ICE officer requests access to a non-public area or presents a warrant or subpoena,
do not attempt to handle the request on your own. Refer the officer to Campus Police
at (562) 924-3618 or Ext. 2325.
Report immigration enforcement on campus
STUDENT PRIVACY
Cerritos College is committed to protecting student data and privacy in accordance with law.
- FERPA - Student personal and educational information is protected under Family Education Right and Privacy Act.
- Immigration Status Protection: In compliance with Cerritos College Board policy, the college will not release student information to immigration enforcement authorities without a valid subpoena or court order/ warrant.
- Non-Discrimination: Cerritos College does not inquire about citizenship or immigration status except as required for financial aid or tuition determination.
RESOURCES
- Free legal aid services are provided by Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights (CHIRLA). Book an appointment for legal counsel at FindYourAlly website by searching “Cerritos College”.
- Immigrant Legal Resource Center (ILRC): Offers a wide range of resources for navigating immigration laws and protecting your rights.
- National Immigration Law Center (NILC): NILC provides resources and advocacy for undocumented individuals across the U.S., including information on DACA, protections for immigrant youth, and updates on immigration policies.
- Informed Immigrant: Provides information on how to find a good immigration lawyer, where to find one, how to prepare to meet with a lawyer, and how to avoid fraud.
- One-on-one mental health short term services and group services provided by the Cerritos College Mental Health Center
- Immigrant Rising – resources related to financial, health, wellness, entrepreneurship and more!
- United We Dream – UndocuHealth Initiative: provides toolkits, webinars, and other resources to support undocumented people
- Informed Immigrant:
- Equity focused Academic Counseling - Contact the Equity Center for assistance to schedule an appointment.
- For petitions involving extenuating circumstances, contact Admissions & Records.
- Success Center - online and in-person tutoring
- Financial Aid office - consult with the financial aid team if your financial situation has recently changed.
- Falcon's Nest - basic needs support and emergency aid
- ALMA Program by the Mission Asset Fund
- Community Justice Exchange
- Anaheim Contigo Mutual Aid Website
- Which Is The Correct Financial Aid Application For You – FAFSA or CA Dream Act?
- Immigrants Rising Fellowships and Scholarships
- Maldef Scholarship Resource Guide