Some states are questioning a well-established precedent that allows undocumented children to attend public schools without paying fees.
In the United States, public schools are required to accept all students. This rule applies no matter the students’ immigration status. This principle was solidified by the U.S. Supreme Court in 1982. The case, known as Plyler v. Doe, involved the state of Texas.
In 1975, Texas passed legislation that permitted public school districts to either charge tuition for immigrant students or deny them access completely. This law was later overturned by the Supreme Court. The ruling confirmed that immigrant students have the right to a free public education regardless of their citizenship status.