When At-Deportation-Rish Students Feel Like Giving Up

For many immigrant high school students, fear and uncertainty about their future can lead to disengagement from school, relationships, and goals. When students believe that their immigration status determines their entire future, they may check out emotionally and academically.

💬 “What’s the point? I won’t be able to go to college anyway.”
💬 “I’m going to get deported. Why even try?”
💬 “My family’s case is hopeless. Nothing matters anymore.”
💬 “Can ICE come to our school?”
💬 “What will happen if my family is detained? How will I find them if we’re separated?”
💬 “What if my parents lose their jobs because they’re afraid to go to work?”

These thoughts stem from deep anxiety, exhaustion, and uncertainty. When students feel powerless, withdrawing can seem like the only option.

How Schools Can Help Students Reconnect & Reclaim Hope

Students need real, tangible reasons to stay engaged, but they also need validation, support, and a sense of control over their own lives. Educators and mentors can help by focusing on small, meaningful steps rather than overwhelming, long-term goals. In high school, we’re past tiptoeing around the uncomfortable truths that face many students’ families. The fuzzy-warm semi-sheltering elementary approach isn’t going to cut it. Our students know what’s going on. And they’re searching for genuine answers and comfort…from you, you superhero connection-builder of a teacher. For better or worse, you are the one. Students continue to show up because they feel safe with you. And that’s something! (Now, don’t forget the self care, please. The secondary trauma load is real.)

1. Validate Feelings Without Offering False Hope

Instead of dismissing their concerns or saying “Everything will be fine,” try:

• “I hear you. It makes sense that this feels overwhelming.”

• “You’re not alone in this, and I care about you.”

• “We may not have all the answers, but we can figure out next steps together.”

📌 Why It Works: Students need stability and connection more than empty reassurances. Acknowledging their reality builds trust.

2. Shift Focus to Small, Achievable Goals

Big future plans (college, careers, legal status changes) may feel impossible, but small wins create momentum:

• “What’s one thing you can control today?” (e.g., finishing an assignment, attending one class)

• “What’s something that interests you outside of school?” (e.g., music, sports, art—help them reconnect with joy)

• “Let’s focus on what’s possible right now.” (e.g., scholarships, trade programs, alternative pathways)

📌 Why It Works: Feeling in control of small choices can help students regain confidence in their ability to shape their own future.

3. Share Real-Life Examples of Resilience

Students need proof that people in similar situations have found success:

• Guest speakers: DACA recipients, undocumented college graduates, young entrepreneurs. (Need recommendations for AMAZING speakers in our community? Reach out!)

• Stories of resilience: Students who navigated legal uncertainty but still built fulfilling lives.

• Pathway alternatives: Trade schools, certification programs, work opportunities beyond traditional college routes.

📌 Why It Works: Seeing someone who overcame similar struggles offers tangible hope.

4. Build Purpose & Connection Beyond Legal Status

Students need to feel that they matter, regardless of their documentation status:

• Create peer support groups where students can share experiences and feel less alone.

• Encourage leadership, volunteering, or creative projects—help students discover their strengths.

• Offer mentorship programs where students connect with trusted adults.

📌 Why It Works: When students see they are more than their legal status, they start envisioning a future beyond their current fears.

5. Offer Scripts & Responses to Common Student Concerns…Then Direct to the School-Based Point Person for Specific Tools, Resources, and Community Connections

Students may ask difficult questions. Here’s how educators can respond:

💬 Student: “Can ICE come to our school?”

🔹 Response: “Schools are considered safe spaces, and immigration officers are not allowed to enter without special legal permissions. Our district follows strict privacy laws to protect students.”

💬 Student: “What will happen if my family is detained? How will I find them if we’re separated?”

🔹 Response: “That’s a really tough thing to think about, and I want you to know you’re not alone. There are organizations that can help families in these situations. Would you like me to connect you with resources?”

💬 Student: “What if my parents lose their jobs because they’re afraid to go to work?”

🔹 Response: “That’s a difficult reality, but there are community groups that offer assistance with food, housing, and even legal support for work-related concerns. Let’s look into what’s available together.”

💬 Student: “I don’t care about school. I won’t be here much longer anyway.”

🔹 Response: “I hear you. I don’t know what the future holds, but I do know that you deserve options. I want to help you find what feels right for you. Can we start with just one step?”

💬 Student: “It’s over for me. My family’s case is hopeless.”

🔹 Response: “That’s a lot to carry. You don’t have to figure this all out today. But I know you matter, your dreams matter, and I’ll stand with you to explore what’s possible.”

💬 Student: “I can’t go to college. What’s the point?”

🔹 Response: “College isn’t the only path, and you have more options than you may realize. Have you ever thought about [trade programs, scholarships, entrepreneurship]? I’d love to help you explore what’s out there.”

📌 Why It Works: These responses validate students’ concerns while offering realistic, practical next steps.

Final Thought: Connection First, Solutions Second

Students who feel disconnected don’t need immediate solutions—they need presence, patience, and someone who sees them beyond their legal status. When schools create trust, small victories, and a sense of belonging, students are more likely to re-engage with their future.

📢 What Schools Can Do Today:
✔ Share sample scripts and strategies with teachers- or create your own that reflect the culture and realities at your school site.
✔ Create safe spaces for students to express concerns.
✔ Bring in community mentors and success stories to inspire hope.
✔ Provide mental health support and culturally responsive counseling.

When students believe they are more than their immigration status, they can start seeing a future worth fighting for.