ImmSchools, a nonprofit aiding immigrant families in Dallas, stopped recommending FAFSA completion amid fears that sensitive data could be accessed by government agencies, particularly due to new oversight by a White House office. The organization’s leader, Lorena Tule-Romain, highlighted concerns that applying for federal aid might jeopardize undocumented families due to increased ICE activity and potential raids at schools. Previously, the organization had aimed to streamline financial aid access but now focuses on advising families on their rights amid the changing landscape.
Now we are not in a position to give that advice. It's heartbreaking.
Before, we were doing all we could to encourage families to apply for federal aid, to empower students to break cycles and go to college.
Student data is technically protected by the Privacy Act of 1974, which prevents departments from sharing personally identifying information unless strict exceptions are met.
With immigration officers conducting a blitz of deportations over the past few weeks - Tule-Romain is worried that applying for federal aid could put undocumented families in jeopardy.
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