At San Diego College of Continuing Education, we are committed to maintaining a campus environment that fosters inclusivity, equity, and respect for all individuals, regardless of their background or immigration status.
We offer resources to support students, families, and employees as immigration rules change. Many in our community have concerns about potential immigration enforcement on campus. This webpage offers guidance on responding to immigration officers, individual rights, and available resources. Whether you're a student seeking support or an employee assisting students, we aim to provide clear and actionable information to protect and empower everyone in our campus community.
Important Facts to Know
The San Diego College of Continuing Education as part of the San Diego Community College District does not share information with anyone, including law enforcement authorities, about immigration status, religion, nationality, ethnicity or other information about individual students and employees without a student or employee's permission, unless presented with a judicially issued subpoena or other legally binding requirement.
The following individuals are the only authorities who may verify the legality of any warrants, court orders, and/or subpoenas or determine whether an immigration officer may access any facilities, records, information, or people within District and College property, facilities, or programs.
- SDCCD Chancellor
- Legal Counsel
They can be reached at (619) 388-6957 or (619) 388-6880 and/or email chancellor@sdccd.edu or lkostic@sdccd.edu specifically for matters related to immigration and requests from immigration officers.
If an immigration officer asks you to identify a student or employee, requests employee or student records or information, or requests access to campus areas:
- Follow the instructions on the Immigration Protocol Card
- Contact the Chancellor's Office and/or General Counsel immediately. You may call (619) 388-6957 or (619) 388-6880 and/or email chancellor@sdccd.edu or lkostic@sdccd.edu.
- This is a monitored line; however, responses outside business hours may be delayed.
For Students: Your Rights on Campus
As a student, it's important to know that you have rights regardless of your immigration status. Here are some key protections and rights you should be aware of:
1. Right to Attend School
Under federal law, you have the right to attend college, regardless of your immigration status. This includes access to educational programs, services, and campus activities.
2. Right to Privacy
Your immigration status is private, and campus employees cannot ask about it unless you voluntarily choose to disclose this information. SDCCE and SDCCD keep student and personnel records private and will not share such information with immigration agencies unless legally compelled to do so.
3. Right to Seek Legal Help
You have the right to seek legal counsel if you need advice or face legal challenges related to your immigration status. Do not hesitate to reach out for professional support.
4. Protection from ICE on Campus
Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents are not permitted to enter classrooms, dormitories, or other campus facilities without a warrant and approval of the SDCCD Chancellor or Legal Counsel. If approached by ICE, you have the right to remain silent and you may simply provide the information card to the District Office and walk away. An individual may assert that you are legally required to engage with them. You are not. If they continue to attempt to engage with you, notify College Police as soon as possible.
5. Access to Campus Resources
Regardless of your immigration status, you have access to academic advising, health services, counseling, and extracurricular activities on campus. These resources are here to support you throughout your time at San Diego College of Continuing Education.
For Employees Supporting Students
As an employee, you play a crucial role in supporting immigrant students. Here are key considerations and best practices to guide you in helping students understand and protect their rights:
1. Be a Resource and Advocate
- Listen and Validate: If a student shares their concerns about immigration issues, listen carefully and provide reassurance. Understand that the legal landscape can be complex and stressful for many students.
- Maintain Confidentiality: It's important not to ask students about their immigration status unless it is necessary for the service being provided. Always protect their privacy.
2. Refer Students to Necessary Resources
If a student needs legal assistance, counseling, or guidance about their rights, refer them to campus resources, such as:
- Legal Services
- Immigrant-Based Support Program
- Counseling Services
- Student Affairs Office
- Be Well CCE Mental Health
3. Employee Support: Employee Assistance Program
The Employee Assistance Program is available to support staff members who may be experiencing stress or concerns related to immigration issues.
4. Be Informed and adhere to SDCCD Administrative Procedure 3415
Administrative Procedure 3415 – Non-Participation in Immigration Enforcement Activities is the District's policy and procedure for interactions with anyone attempting to engage in immigration enforcement activities. This procedure applies at all District properties and facilities, all College properties and facilities, and in any District or College class, program, or other activity, regardless of the location.
Administrative Procedure 3415 designates the Chancellor and General Counsel as the only employees with the authority to respond to any request for access to facilities, records, information, or people within District and College property, facilities, or programs. This includes any subpoena, warrant, or other legal basis. No other employee is authorized to engage with any individual representing a government agency in the performance of their duties without the express written consent of the Chancellor or General Counsel. Any willful violation of this procedure can result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination.
If an individual insists on coming onto District or College property or facilities, report it to College Police and the Chancellor's Office and/or General Counsel immediately. You may call (619) 388-6957 or (619) 388-6880 and/or email chancellor@sdccd.edu or lkostic@sdccd.edu.
Volunteer Opportunities
Resources
- ACLU - Open Letter to U.S. College and University Presidents: Protect Speech on Campus
- AP 3415
- Be Well CCE
- Employee Immigration Enforcement Information Card
- Immigration Enforcement Notice
- Navigating Immigration Enforcement (English, Spanish, Haitian Creole, Chinese, Tagalog)
- Undocumented Support Services Virtual Workshops (English, Spanish)
Safety, Inclusion, and Belonging TaskForce Members
This page is currently being curated by the Safety, Inclusion, and Belonging Task Force.
Executive President’s Cabinet
- Dr. Tina King – President
- Dr. Shakerra Carter – VP Student Services
- Dr. Masahiro Omae – VP Instruction
- Jacqueline Sabanos – VP Administrative Services
- Brenna Leon Sandeford – Public Information Officer
- Dr. Tami Foy – Executive Director of Foundation
Student Services
- Dr. Terry Sivers – Counselor/Black Student Success Program
- Andrea Yeager – Outreach Coordinator
Instructional Services
- Ildifonso Carrillo – ESL Faculty & Family Literacy Coordinator
- Sarah Boswell – ESL Faculty
- Trenton Romero – Instructional Assistant, Computer Science
Communications and Creative Services
- Tiara Sanders – Campus Digital Communications Specialist
- Richie McGirr – Web Designer
Administrative Services
- Jared Osornio – Administrative Assistant III
- Cynthia Giammarinaro – Accounting Technician
Academic Senate
- Linda Bautista – ESL & Citizenship Faculty
Classified Senate
- Zuri Williams – Job Developer Placement Specialist
Student Representatives
- Haydee Zuniga – Student Trustee
- Ruth Derice – Student
DEIAA Committee
- Esteban Alvarado – Emeritus Faculty & DEIAA Committee Chair
- Carla Grossini-Concha – Flex & Professional Development Coordinator
- Dr. Maureen Rubalcaba – Dean of Instructional Learning Technology & Learning Resources
Foundation
- Christopher “Noah” Howard – Program Manager
- Josue Castro – Special Projects Manager