Step 1: Know the Right to Education

• All children in California have the right to a free public education, regardless of immigration or refugee status.
   

• This includes preschool, K–12, and many after-school programs.
   

• Schools are not allowed to ask about immigration status or require a Social Security Number.
   

 

Step 2: Find Your Local School District

• School enrollment depends on your home address.
   

• To find your local district:
   

  • Use the California Department of Education (CDE) directory: https://www.cde.ca.gov/schooldirectory/ 

  • Enter your city or ZIP code to see which school your child can attend.
     

 

Step 3: Prepare Required Documents

Most schools ask for:

1. Proof of age – birth certificate, passport, or refugee documents.
    

2. Proof of address – rental agreement, utility bill, or letter from a shelter.
    

3. Immunization records – schools require vaccines (if missing, schools will guide you on free clinics), you can also check out the vaccination page.
    

4. Previous school records (if available) – transcripts or report cards help place your child in the right grade, but lack of them won’t prevent enrollment.
    

If you don’t have a document, explain your situation—schools must provide alternatives or assistance.

 

Step 4: Visit the School or District Office

• Go to the enrollment center or the school your child will attend.
   

• Ask for an enrollment application (often available in multiple languages).
   

• Staff will help you fill out the form. Interpreters are often available.
   

 

Step 5: Language Support (English Learners)

• If your child speaks little or no English, the school will give a Home Language Survey.
   

• Children may be placed in English Learner (EL) programs, where they get extra help while learning regular subjects.
   

• Some are also eligible for bilingual or translation services.
   

 

Step 6: Special Services Available

• Ask about free school meals (breakfast and lunch).
   

• Transportation assistance (bus routes).
   

• Counseling and social workers to support immigrants and trauma-affected children.
   

• Special education services if your child has a disability.
   

 

Step 7: After Enrollment

• School generally starts in late August or September, but the child can join anytime during the school year.

• Attend the school orientation if offered.

• Meet your child’s teachers and ask about support for newcomers.

• Stay in touch with the school office—they can connect you with after-school programs, homework clubs, and ESL support.
   

 

Step 8: If You Need Help

• California Department of Education Immigrant & Refugee Resources: CDE Newcomer Resources
   

• International Rescue Committee (IRC) in California: Offers school enrollment help (IRC California)
   

• Catholic Charities & Jewish Family Services: Many locations have education support for refugee families.
   

• School Enrollment Hotline (211): Dial 211 in California for free help finding your local school and required documents.
   

 

Key Tip: Immigrant children cannot be denied enrollment because of missing documents. Schools must enroll them first and help resolve paperwork later.