San Diego Unified’s Board of Education Votes to Align District Policies With State on Immigration Enforcement

Changes Primarily Made to Language, Not Substance of Existing District Policies

SAN DIEGO (February 24, 2026) -The San Diego Unified School District Board of Education on Tuesday night reviewed and approved revisions to its policies regarding immigration enforcement to ensure alignment with the California Department of Education (CDE).

San Diego Unified, the second largest school district in California, had already implemented policies the state is now requiring all school districts to adhere to by March 1, and most of the changes made provided greater clarity of processes. For years the District's policies had already focused on ensuring the rights of all students, staff and family are protected.

"Every student and staff member who steps foot on a school campus has the right to do so without fear," said Richard Barrera, President of the Board of Education, San Diego Unified School District. "We were an early adopter of policies designed to keep children and our educators safe while on our campus; and this update to our existing policies brings us in alignment with the new CDE policies."

To review the updated Board Policy 1445, click hereand to review the new Administrative Regulation, click here.

In 2024, San Diego Unified proactively took action to help its students and staff feel protected by launching an informational campaign about equity, civil rights and safety resources. As part of the campaign is a websitewith useful tools, such as how to report a concern, prohibit discrimination and ensure all students and staff know their rights under the law.

To learn more about the San Diego Unified School District, click here.

###