SIRS: Educational Access

For close to forty years, Plyler vs. Doe has ensured equal access to education for children regardless of immigration status. In June 1982, the Supreme Court issued Plyler v. Doe, a landmark decision holding that states cannot constitutionally deny students a free public education on account of their immigration status. By a 5-4 vote, the Court found that any resources which might be saved from excluding undocumented children from public schools were far outweighed by the harms imposed on society at large from denying them an education.

At the post-secondary level, Texas law authorizes persons classified as Texas residents to pay in-state tuition, a rate of tuition that is generally three times lower than for those classified as nonresidents. In addition, Texas residents may receive state financial aid if they meet eligibility requirements of the program.

Partner Resource Guides:

• AISD Immigrant and Refugee Services
• Your Rights in AISD
• Semillitas de Aprendizaje
• Manor ISD Parent Resource Guide