Immigration Enforcement FAQ
Can federal immigration agents come onto campus?
Yes. Federal immigration agents (including ICE) may enter public areas of campus without a warrant.
They may not enter non‑public areas unless they present a valid judicial warrant or receive explicit permission from an authorized Olympic College official.
What areas of campus are considered public or non‑public?
Public Areas (open to everyone):
- Outdoor spaces and walkways
- Lobbies and reception desks
- Hallways and common areas
- Libraries and other areas routinely open to the public
Non‑Public Areas (restricted access):
- Classrooms and labs (when in session)
- Faculty and staff offices
- Meeting rooms
- Student service spaces not open to the public
- Any workspace designated for college operations or requiring authorization
Who is authorized to interact with immigration enforcement agents?
Employees are not authorized to engage with or assist immigration enforcement.
All immigration‑enforcement‑related requests must be directed to the Chief Operating Officer (COO), who serves as the College’s enforcement‑request designee.
If approached, employees may say:
“I’m not authorized to respond to this request. Olympic College policy requires that all law‑enforcement and enforcement‑related inquiries be directed to the Chief Operating Officer.”
You should then immediately contact Campus Safety & Security.
What should I do if immigration enforcement agents come to campus seeking a person or records?
- Remain calm and professional.
- Do not escort agents into non‑public areas.
- Refer them to the COO using the approved statement above.
- Notify Campus Safety & Security immediately (info below).
- If agents refuse to wait or insist on acting:
- Do not interfere, argue, or obstruct.
- Take note of what you observe (if safe).
- Contact Campus Security as soon as possible.
What are Olympic College employees prohibited from doing?
Employees may not:
- Assist immigration officers with enforcement actions
- Grant access to non‑public areas
- Accept or respond to subpoenas, warrants, or document requests
- Attempt to check or verify anyone’s immigration status
- Provide information or records directly to immigration enforcement
What is Campus Safety & Security’s role?
- Does not enforce federal immigration laws
- Does not conduct immigration status checks
- Coordinates with the COO when enforcement agents are on campus
- Reviews any legal documents presented
- Ensures activities follow state law and OC policy
- Helps protect the rights, safety, and privacy of the campus community
Is student immigration information protected?
Yes.
Under FERPA, all student records, including immigration‑related information, are protected. Olympic College does not release student records to immigration enforcement without a valid judicial order or subpoena, and only the appropriate college officials may respond to such requests.
What if a student or employee is worried about immigration enforcement?
Encourage them to connect with reputable resources, such as:
- Washington Attorney General – Know Your Rights
- Northwest Immigrant Rights Project (NWIRP)
- National Immigration Law Center (NILC)
Campus staff may also refer individuals to Student Services or the DEI Office for support.
Who should I contact if I witness or become aware of immigration enforcement activity on campus?
Campus Safety & Security
- Email: @email
- Phone: 360‑475‑7800
- Location: Building 4, Room 100
- Website: Campus Safety & Security Website
Campus Security will notify trained Operations staff and the Chief Operating Officer.
