October 23, 2025
Dear Colleagues:
We are aware that recent reports regarding potential Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations have raised concern and unease within our community. The Foothill-De Anza Community College District is committed to providing a safe learning and working environment for
all students, staff and community members, including those who may be vulnerable due to their immigration status or other protected characteristics.
Though San Francisco Mayor Daniel Lurie shared in the statement earlier today that the federal government has called off its potential deployment
in the San Francisco Bay Area, I want to make sure every member of our community is aware of our protocol if confirmed federal immigration enforcement activity occurs on one of our campuses.
In the event of immigration enforcement activity, the college will notify students and employees with clear details
about the date, time, and location of confirmed activity and a hyperlink to support services
for students and employees.
These notification processes are guided by two new, important laws:
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California Senate Bill 98 (SB 98) - requires public colleges to provide timely notifications when immigration enforcement occurs on campus. The Governor signed this legislation on Saturday, September 20, 2025, with urgency, which means it is in effect now.
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California Assembly Bill 49 (AB 49) - requires institutions to maintain clear response protocols, resource referrals and communication safeguards to support and protect immigrant students and employees.
By following these laws, we ensure that our community is informed promptly, consistently, and transparently.
Reporting Process: A reminder to please refer to our college guidance for responding to ICE presence on our campuses.
Know Your Rights: In line with California law, the campus Police Department remains dedicated to protecting
victims of crime and supporting our undocumented students through outreach and Know Your Rights Forums. Read Police Chief Acosta’s statement here: https://police.fhda.edu/_about-us/index.html
Support for Employees and Students
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Campus Police/Safety – Campus Police will protect your rights and do not inquire about immigration status or collaborate with ICE for immigration enforcement (California Senate Bill 54 and Assembly Bill 21).
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Foothill College Campus Police – (650) 949-7313, press 1 (non-emergency line)
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De Anza College Campus Police Substation – (650) 949-7313, press 1 (non-emergency line)
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Foothill College Police /De Anza College Police – (408) 924-8000 (emergency line)
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Student Mental Health and Wellness Support
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Foothill and De Anza Student Services Support Pages
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Legal information and referrals
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Santa Clara County
Thank you for supporting one another and upholding our values. We are committed to maintaining a safe, welcoming and inclusive learning environment
for every member of our community, regardless of immigration status.
Sincerely,
Sincerely,
Lee D. Lambert, J.D.
Chancellor