What does DACA stand for?

• A. Deferred Action for Civilian Arrivals
• B. Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals
• C. Direct Action for Childhood Arrivals
• D. Deferred Assistance for Child Arrivals

Answer: (D)

DACA stands for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals. This federal program allows certain undocumented individuals who were brought to the United States as children to request protection from deportation (deferred action) and to obtain work authorization for a renewable two-year period. It does not grant permanent status or citizenship, but it provides temporary relief that can help students pursue education and employment opportunities. Eligibility includes arriving in the U.S. before age 16, living continuously here since a date in 2007, being enrolled in or having completed high school or a GED, and meeting other criteria. The policy is not about “Civilian Arrivals,” “Direct Action,” or “Deferred Assistance,” so those options don’t reflect the actual program name or purpose. In schools, understanding DACA helps Social Workers support students with legal status considerations, access to resources, and strategies to reduce fear and disruption to learning.