Oklahoma Plan Would Require Parents to Provide Immigration Status When Enrolling Students
State Board of Education Approves Proposal
The State Board of Education in Oklahoma has approved a proposal that would require parents to provide proof of their child’s U.S. citizenship or legal immigration status when enrolling their child in a public school.
Rule Aimed at Helping President Trump’s Immigration Policies
The board voted unanimously to approve the rule, which still needs to be approved by the Legislature and the governor. Republican State Supt. Ryan Walters, the state’s education chief, said the rule is needed to help schools gather information about where to place staff and resources.
Protest Outside Board Meeting
While the board met, hundreds of students and demonstrators gathered outside the administration building to protest the board’s decision. A U.S. Supreme Court ruling in 1982 affirmed the right of children living in the country illegally to attend public schools, although some conservative lawmakers have questioned whether immigrants without legal residency should have the right to a public education.
Controversy Over Rule
The proposed rule has been sharply criticized by teachers and civil liberty groups, and is causing fear within Oklahoma’s immigrant communities, said Rep. Arturo Alonso-Sandoval, a Democrat who represents Oklahoma City’s heavily Latino south side.
Federal Law Guarantees Right to Education
At Oklahoma City Public Schools, one of the state’s largest districts, Supt. Jamie Polk said in a letter to parents and staff last month that federal law guarantees every child’s right to a public education, regardless of immigration status.
History of Plyler vs. Doe
For decades, children of families living in the country illegally have had the right to attend public school based on a 1982 Supreme Court decision known as Plyler vs. Doe. In a 5-4 vote, justices held it is unconstitutional to deny children an education based on their immigration status.
Attempts to Undermine Plyler Decision
Immigration experts say attempts to undermine the Plyler decision should be taken seriously, pointing to recent Supreme Court rulings that have overturned long-standing precedents over abortion rights and affirmative action in higher education.
Conclusion
The proposal to require parents to provide immigration status when enrolling their child in a public school has sparked controversy and raised concerns about the impact on immigrant communities. The rule still needs to be approved by the Legislature and the governor, and it remains to be seen how it will affect students and families in Oklahoma.
FAQs
Q: What is the proposed rule?
A: The proposed rule would require parents to provide proof of their child’s U.S. citizenship or legal immigration status when enrolling their child in a public school.
Q: Why is the rule being proposed?
A: The rule is being proposed to help schools gather information about where to place staff and resources.
Q: Is the rule preventing students without legal status from enrolling or attending school?
A: No, the rule does not prevent students without legal status from enrolling or attending school, but it would require districts to keep a tally.
Q: Is the Plyler vs. Doe decision still in effect?
A: Yes, the Plyler vs. Doe decision is still in effect, and federal law guarantees every child’s right to a public education, regardless of immigration status.
