The Rights of Immigrant Children and English Learners in the Public Schools
Immigrant children and English Learners (ELs) often face barriers in gaining entry to public schools and participating in school activities. This session will discuss what public schools can and cannot require of immigrant children and ELs. Topics to be discussed include Social Security numbers, immigration documents, birth certificates, immunization records, age requirements, the use of school district websites, and access to school lunch and breakfast programs. The session will also cover the rights of English Learners and their parents in the public schools. Additional topics will include Special Education and English Learners; Access to Post-Secondary Education for immigrant students; how the doctrine of Public Charge does not apply to school programs; and the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program.