Responding to ICE on Campus

Bakersfield College is committed to providing students with access to educational resources and support. This page provides information to help students, faculty, and staff understand how to respond if U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) or other immigration enforcement officers appear on campus.

Knowing where to find support, understanding your rights, and following established campus procedures can help you respond calmly and appropriately.

What Should You Do if ICE Is on Campus?

Notify the Appropriate Campus Official: If you see immigration enforcement officers on campus or receive information about their presence, notify the appropriate Bakersfield College or Kern Community College District administrator or designated campus official. Follow official campus procedures.
Refer Requests to Authorized Officials: If an immigration officer asks you to provide access to campus facilities, student records, or personal information, refer the request to the designated campus administrator or legal counsel. Do not independently approve access or disclose confidential information.
Do Not Interfere with Law Enforcement: Remain calm, maintain a safe distance, and do not physically obstruct officers. Refer questions about warrants, subpoenas, or other legal documents to the appropriate campus official.
Protect Student Privacy: Do not share student records, personal information, or information about someone's immigration status unless disclosure is authorized or legally required. Refer requests for information to the appropriate campus official.
Seek Support and Know Your Rights: If you or someone you know is affected by immigration enforcement, consider contacting a qualified immigration attorney or a trusted community resource for guidance.

Student Guide to Immigration Enforcement Response

Kern Community College District supports your safety, privacy, and education, regardless of immigration status.

If an immigration officer approaches you

Stay calm. Do not run, physically resist, or block officers.
Ask, “Am I free to leave?” If the officer says yes, walk away calmly.
You may remain silent. Say, “I choose to remain silent.”
You may refuse consent to a search. Say, “I do not consent to a search.”
Ask to speak with a lawyer before answering questions or signing documents.

Some noncitizens must carry and show immigration documents when asked by immigration officers. A court order is not always required. Ask an immigration lawyer in advance what applies to you.

If you see ICE officers on campus

When safe, notify campus public safety or the designated college contact below. Share the time, location, and what you observed.
Officers may enter public campus areas. Access to nonpublic areas generally requires a judicial warrant, but legal exceptions may apply. Campus officials handle these situations.

Your Privace

Your education records are protected by law. The college may share information only when authorized or required by law.