Know Your Rights: Information for Families

All students have a constitutionally protected right to access free public education. Public K-12 schools, including charter public schools, must provide equal access to education to all students regardless of race, color, sex, gender identity, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, immigration or citizenship status, or that of their parents. Schools must meet this fundamental obligation and are required under federal and state law to protect student privacy.

Education Rights and Student Data

Federal and state laws protect student education records and personally identifiable information. These laws generally require that schools get written consent from parents/guardians before releasing student information unless the release of information is for educational purposes, is already public, or there is a legal exception (which would need to be approved by our school’s lawyer) like a court order or subpoena. CCSC does not voluntarily release students or their records to anyone other than their parents and guardians. See here for CCSC's Board Approved Resolution on Access to Education, Student Privacy, and Immigration Enforcement Policy. 

Reminders of immigrant students’ rights are available in a family-friendly one-page guide from the MA Office of the Attorney General: English, Español, Kreyòl ayisyen, and Português.

CCSC does not ask for or collect information related to students’ or families’ immigration or citizenship status. 

Mental Health Supports for Students and Families

During times of change and uncertainty, it’s natural for students and families to experience a range of emotions. CCSC is committed to supporting the mental health and well-being of our entire school community. Our counseling team includes two counselors, a licensed social worker, and a school psychologist and can be reached at: counseling@ccscambridge.org. 

If you have concerns about your student’s mental health:

  • Listen to your student and acknowledge their feelings
  • Connect with your student’s doctor or CCSC’s Counseling Department
  • Call 911 or take your student to the nearest emergency room for immediate support

Please visit the CCSC Counseling Department webpage for additional external resources including Helplines, Resources, and Emergency Support; Resources for Students; Resources for Caregivers; and Activities for Reducing Stress and Anxiety (scroll to the bottom of the Counseling Department webpage). 

Community Resources

City Websites and Resources

Please continue to check local and city websites for important information about available resources and opportunities: 

Local and State Resources

CCSC Communication