In 1982 the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in the case of Plyler vs. Doe that undocumented children and young adults are required to attend school until a mandated age, which applies to all children regardless of status. Due to this ruling, there are some procedures that must be followed such as no public school may deny enrollment or admission to any student based on documentation status.
Although currently required that undocumented children be allowed to attend public school, some recent actions from the White House have sparked new interest in the ongoing debate. As part of efforts to stem illegal immigration into the United States, members of the Trump Administration were searching for a means to allow public schools to deny undocumented children enrollment. The efforts were abandoned due to the case Plyler vs. Doe standing in the way, but it started more conversations on both political ends about whether or not children of illegal immigrants should be allowed to attend public schools.
One of the main arguments against allowing undocumented children in public schools, is that the influx of students puts a large burden on the U. S. school system. More resources are required to teach these students, and more bilingual teachers need to be hired to support them. In addition, the cost of education is rising due to the number of students coming in from outside of the United States. Some also feel that it is unfair to children of citizenship status in terms of overcrowding. Immigrant students may need special attention from teachers that is then taken away from native students.
On the opposing side, many support the Plyler vs. Doe decision in favor of allowing immigrant children in public schools. It is argued that it is in the best interest of the nation to allow all children to attend school, thereby giving them to have the tools to be successful and give back to the country. More students in school would lower illiteracy rates creating more competent community members and workforce. The high cost of education is combated by those students getting jobs and benefiting the economy. According to the Intercultural Research Development Association, for every $1 spent on education, at least $9 is returned to the economy. In addition, denying undocumented children access to school can be considered discriminatory, and punishment for children who have no control of the circumstances of their situation.
Regardless of opinion, the Supreme Court decision stands, and at this time no child can legally be denied access to a public education in the United States.
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