This ERIC digest reports the background effects, and implications of Plyler v. Doe, a 1982 U.S. Supreme Court ruling guaranteeing the right of undocumented immigrant children to attend public school. The document is divided into five parts. “Background of the Plyler Case” describes the Plyler v. Doe ruling and the Texas law that the Court held to be unconstitutional under this ruling. “Undocumented Children in the United States” describes the everyday difficulties experienced by undocumented children and their families. “Access: Students’ Rights and Schools’ Responsibilities” describes how and why state residency requirements cannot be used to deny public education to undocumented children and emphasizes that school staff should be aware of these students’ rights. “What Should School Staff Do?” describes practices schools should avoid regarding undocumented students, and makes recommendations regarding their proper treatment. “The Bottom Line” emphasizes how staff sensitivity can foster the atmosphere of acceptance and trust that undocumented students need. This digest includes 10 references. (TES)
