AWSP
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Supporting Immigrant and Undocumented Students

AWSP is committed to fostering inclusive, equitable, and supportive environments for all students, including immigrant and undocumented learners. Schools are a vital source of stability and opportunity for these students, and we must ensure they are welcomed and protected in our education system.

In alignment with the recent guidance released by Superintendent Reykdal and OSPI, our resource page is designed to provide school leaders, educators, and communities with essential tools and information.


OSPI Guidance:

Protecting Immigrant and Undocumented Students

OSPI released guidance to help schools protect and support immigrant and undocumented students. This resource offers legal insights, actionable strategies, and best practices for fostering inclusive, equitable school environments.

School leaders are vital in ensuring every student feels safe, valued, and supported, regardless of immigration status. This guidance is to help you uphold these protections and strengthen your efforts to create welcoming spaces for all students. Explore the resources to learn more and take action in your schools.


Case Law Plyler vs. Doe (457 U.S. 202 (1982))


The U.S. Supreme Court ruled in Plyler vs. Doe (457 U.S. 202 (1982)) that undocumented children and young adults have the same right to attend public primary and secondary schools as do U.S. citizens and permanent residents. Like other children, undocumented students are obliged under state law to attend school until they reach a mandated age. As a result of the Plyler ruling, public schools may not:

  1. Deny admission to a student during initial enrollment or at any other time on the basis of undocumented status.
  2. Treat a student differently to determine residency.
  3. Engage in any practices to "chill" the right of access to school.
  4. Require students or parents to disclose or document their immigration status.
  5. Make inquiries of students or parents that may expose their undocumented status.
  6. Require social security numbers from all students, as this may expose undocumented status. (Adults without social security numbers who are applying for a free lunch and/or breakfast program on behalf of a student need only indicate on the application that they do not have a social security number.​)


Student  Walkouts

Need to let your parents and community know how you're handling walkouts and protest? View a sample letter from a district to a community. 

Sample Letter

What Can Students Do

Students can make their schools safer and more inclusive by working with their peers, teachers, administrators and community members.

Learn More