CHULA VISTA — Regardless of immigration status, children have the right to a free public education, a guarantee the City of Chula Vista is emphasizing as part of its outreach efforts to immigrant families and the broader community.
According to the City of Chula Vista, public schools must provide education to all students and cannot require proof of citizenship or immigration status for enrollment. Families are also not required to provide passport, visa or Social Security information during the school registration process.
City officials said the message is part of the “Know Your Rights – Immigration Resources” informational initiative, which aims to guide residents on educational protections and other constitutional rights under state and federal law.
“Chula Vista is committed to the safety, well-being and dignity of all residents, regardless of immigration status,” the city stated in its community message. Officials added that, as a matter of policy and practice, city staff do not ask about immigration status when providing services or interacting with the public, including during interactions with the Chula Vista Police Department.
The city stressed that educational institutions must guarantee environments free from discrimination, harassment or bullying, recognizing access to education as a fundamental right for minors living in the United States.
Beyond education, the city highlighted additional protections available to immigrant communities, including the right to consult an attorney in case of arrest or detention, the right to privacy during interactions with local authorities under California law, and protection against discrimination in housing and employment based on immigration status or place of origin.
Officials also reminded residents that all individuals have the right to access emergency medical care regardless of immigration status, reinforcing protections related to health and public safety.
As part of its informational efforts, the city directs residents to community and educational resources, including support programs within local school districts, Southwestern College’s Dreamer Center, and legal and community organizations such as the ACLU and the San Diego Immigrant Rights Consortium.
City officials emphasized that the information is general in nature and encouraged residents with immigration-related legal questions to consult licensed attorneys or federally accredited representatives. More information is available at chulavistaca.gov/our-city/immigrant-rights.