Migrant students’ rights in the US: What you need to know

Migrant students in the U.S. face both legal protections and significant challenges in accessing education. Federal laws, including the 1982 Plyler v. Doe ruling, ensure free public education regardless of immigration status. However, barriers like zero-tolerance policies and school resource officers (SROs) persist, contributing to the “school-to-deportation pipeline.” Despite these obstacles, states and educators are increasing support through data and social-emotional tools, advocating for safe school environments and continued access to education for immigrant-origin students.