1. What is the current status of legislation on supporting undocumented students in Illinois?

The Illinois Senate Bill 2196, also known as the Student ACCESS Bill, was passed in June of 2019. It aims to remove barriers for undocumented students from accessing higher education, by allowing them to receive state financial aid and scholarships. This bill makes Illinois the first state in the Midwest to provide such support for undocumented students.

The Student ACCESS Bill builds upon previous legislation such as the Retention of Illinois Students and Equity (RISE) Act, which grants in-state tuition rates to undocumented students who meet certain residency criteria. This Act was signed into law by Governor J.B. Pritzker in June 2019.

Overall, Illinois has taken significant steps towards supporting undocumented students and providing them with equal access to education opportunities. However, more could still be done at a federal level to provide comprehensive support for these students.

2. How does Illinois compare to neighboring states in terms of policies and laws for undocumented students?

Illinois has some of the most progressive policies in place for undocumented students compared to its neighboring states. For example, Illinois allows undocumented students to qualify for in-state tuition if they attended an Illinois high school for at least three years, and can show proof that they or their parents have paid state taxes for at least three years. This is not the case in Indiana, Wisconsin, and Missouri, where undocumented students are required to pay out-of-state tuition regardless of their length of residency.

In terms of financial aid, Illinois also offers some options for undocumented students. It has a statewide institutional scholarship program called the Monetary Award Program (MAP) that allows undocumented students to apply for funds as long as they meet certain criteria, such as attending an approved institution and showing financial need. However, other neighboring states like Wisconsin and Iowa do not offer any state-funded financial aid opportunities for undocumented students.

In terms of driver’s licenses, Illinois is one of only 12 states that allows undocumented individuals to obtain a driver’s license regardless of their immigration status. This is not the case in Indiana, where only documented individuals can obtain a driver’s license.

Illinois also offers protections for undocumented individuals through its Trust Act, which limits cooperation between local law enforcement officials and federal immigration authorities. This helps provide some level of security and safety for undocumented individuals living in Illinois.

Overall, Illinois has more inclusive policies and laws in place for undocumented students compared to its neighboring states. While there is still room for improvement and further advocacy efforts, this makes Illinois a more welcoming state for immigrants and provides greater opportunities for education and success among the undocumented student population.

3. Are there any proposed changes or updates to legislation that would benefit undocumented students in Illinois?

Yes, there are currently proposals for legislation that would benefit undocumented students in Illinois.

One example is the Retention of Illinois Students and Equity (RISE) Act, which was introduced in the Illinois Senate in January 2019. This act would allow undocumented students who meet certain criteria to apply for state financial aid programs, including the Monetary Award Program (MAP) and other scholarships administered by the Illinois Student Assistance Commission.

Additionally, there is a bill proposed in the Illinois House of Representatives called the Student ACCESS Bill, which aims to provide undocumented students with equal access to public university admission and financial aid opportunities.

Both of these proposed bills would greatly benefit undocumented students in Illinois by providing them with more opportunities for higher education and financial support.

4. Have there been any successful initiatives or programs implemented in Illinois to support undocumented students?

Yes, there have been several successful initiatives and programs implemented in Illinois to support undocumented students. Some of these include:

1. The Illinois Dream Fund: This scholarship program was created in 2011 to provide financial aid to undocumented students who wish to pursue higher education in Illinois. It is funded through private donations and has awarded over $500,000 in scholarships since its inception.

2. DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) Program: In 2012, the Obama administration introduced DACA, which allows certain undocumented immigrants who came to the US as children to receive protection from deportation and work permits. As of January 2020, there were over 40,000 active DACA recipients in Illinois.

3. In-state tuition: Undocumented students are eligible for in-state tuition at public universities and community colleges in Illinois if they meet specific criteria, such as attending high school in the state for at least three years and showing proof of residency.

4. Access to state financial aid: In 2019, Illinois became one of the first states to allow undocumented students to apply for state financial aid through the Retention of Illinois Students & Equity (RISE) Act.

5. Campus support programs: Many universities in Illinois have established support programs specifically designed for undocumented students, providing resources such as mentorship opportunities, counseling services, and legal assistance.

6. Undocumented Student Resource Center: At the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, a resource center was established in 2016 to provide support and resources for undocumented students on campus.

7. Illinois Welcoming Centers: These centers offer comprehensive services for immigrants, including educational resources and assistance with citizenship applications.

8. Legal Aid organizations: Organizations such as The National Immigrant Justice Center provide free or low-cost legal services for undocumented individuals facing deportation or seeking immigration relief.

Overall, these initiatives and programs have helped improve opportunities for undocumented students in Illinois by providing financial and legal resources and creating a more welcoming and supportive environment for their educational pursuits.

5. What challenges do undocumented students face when attempting to access education in Illinois?

As an AI language model, I don’t have personal experiences but based on research, undocumented students can face various challenges when attempting to access education in Illinois, including:

1. Financial Barriers: Undocumented students are not eligible for federal financial aid, which can make it difficult for them to afford college tuition and other expenses. Moreover, they also cannot work legally in the US which limits their ability to save money for education.

2. Residency Requirements: Most colleges and universities in Illinois require proof of residency for in-state tuition rates. As undocumented students are considered non-residents, they may have to pay higher tuition rates compared to their classmates.

3. Limited Access to Scholarships: Many scholarships and grants are only available to US citizens or permanent residents, excluding undocumented students from these resources that could help fund their education.

4. Fear of Deportation: Undocumented students may face fear of deportation if they reveal their status while accessing education in Illinois. This fear can discourage them from enrolling in college or participating in certain activities on campus.

5. Language Barriers: Undocumented students may face challenges due to the language barrier as they might not be proficient enough in English, especially if they are recent immigrants.

6. Lack of Support Services: Some colleges and universities may not have enough resources or support services specifically targeted towards undocumented students. This lack of support can result in a lack of guidance and assistance throughout the college application process.

7. Uncertainty about Future Opportunities: Undocumented students often face uncertainty about their future opportunities after completing their education as they may not have legal status or work authorization in the US.

8. Discrimination and Stigma: Undocumented students may also face discrimination and stigma on campus or within their communities due to their immigration status, making it harder for them to feel safe and supported at school.

9. Inconsistent Policies Across Institutions: The policies surrounding access to education for undocumented students differ across universities and colleges, creating confusion and inconsistency in their pursuit of higher education.

Overall, these challenges can make it extremely difficult for undocumented students to access and complete their education in Illinois.

6. How has recent federal immigration policy affected legislation regarding undocumented students in Illinois?

In Illinois, there have been several legislative changes and proposals in response to federal immigration policies that affect undocumented students.

One major change was the passing of the Illinois Dream Act in 2011, which allowed undocumented students who met certain requirements to qualify for state-funded financial aid for college. This legislation was seen as a response to the lack of federal support for undocumented immigrants, particularly with the failure of the DREAM Act at the federal level.

In terms of recent actions from the federal government, the rescission of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) in 2017 had a significant impact on undocumented students in Illinois. DACA provided temporary protection and work authorization for young undocumented immigrants who came to the US as children, many of whom were students. The revocation of this policy has left DACA recipients uncertain about their future and ability to continue pursuing higher education.

Illinois has also taken steps to protect the privacy and rights of undocumented students on college campuses. In 2016, Governor Bruce Rauner signed into law the Higher Education Student Assistance Act, which prohibits colleges from providing information about a student’s immigration status without their consent.

Additionally, some state legislators have proposed bills that would prevent local police from cooperating with federal immigration enforcement efforts, such as restricting detainers (requests by ICE officials to hold individuals in local custody until they are taken into ICE custody). These measures aim to provide a safer environment for undocumented students and their families who may fear deportation or detention.

Overall, immigration policies at the federal level have spurred action and responses at the state level in Illinois regarding protections and opportunities for undocumented students. While there have been efforts to support these individuals within the state, ongoing changes at the federal level continue to impact this population’s educational access and safety.

7. Are there specific resources available for undocumented students attending colleges/universities in Illinois?

Yes, there are specific resources available for undocumented students attending colleges/universities in Illinois. These resources include:

1) Financial Aid: Undocumented students may be eligible for state-funded financial aid in Illinois, such as the Monetary Award Program (MAP) and the College Illinois Scholarship. Also, some colleges and universities have created scholarships specifically for undocumented students.

2) Private Scholarships: There are several private scholarships available for undocumented students in Illinois, such as the Illinois Dream Fund Scholarship and TheDream.US scholarship.

3) Institutional Support: Many colleges and universities in Illinois have established programs and support services for undocumented students, including mentorship programs, academic advising, and career counseling.

4) Immigration Legal Clinics: Some colleges and universities in Illinois offer immigration legal clinics to assist undocumented students with their immigration status.

5) College Access Programs: There are organizations like the Latino Policy Forum and Chicago Area Schweitzer Fellows that provide college access support to undocumented youth in Chicago and other parts of Illinois.

6) Immigrant Rights Organizations: Various immigrant rights organizations in Illinois offer resources, advocacy support, and legal assistance to undocumented students, such as the National Immigration Law Center (NILC), the Resurrection Project, and United We Dream.

7) State Laws: In 2015, Governor Bruce Rauner signed into law HB 1908 known as the Trust Act which limits local law enforcement collaborations with ICE unless they have a judicial warrant. This provides greater protection for undocumented individuals living in Illinois.

8. How does the K-12 education system in Illinois address the needs of undocumented students?

The K-12 education system in Illinois follows state and federal laws that require schools to provide equal educational opportunities to all students, regardless of their immigration status. This means that undocumented students have the right to enroll in and attend public schools, and cannot be denied access based on their citizenship or immigration status.

In addition, Illinois has implemented several policies specifically aimed at supporting the needs of undocumented students:

1. In-state tuition: Undocumented students who have attended an Illinois high school for at least three years and graduate from a state high school are eligible for in-state tuition at Illinois public colleges and universities.

2. Private scholarships: There are a number of private scholarships available to undocumented students in Illinois, including the Simon Scholarships for Undocumented Students and the Golden Apple Scholars Program.

3. Access to financial aid: Undocumented students have access to certain forms of financial aid in Illinois, such as state-funded institutional aid and private scholarships.

4. English language support: Schools in Illinois must provide English language learners (ELLs) with appropriate language support services as mandated by federal law.

5. Counseling and guidance services: Schools must also provide counseling and guidance services to all students, including undocumented students, to help them prepare for higher education or employment after graduation.

6. Safe haven policies: Some school districts in Illinois have adopted “safe haven” policies that prohibit school personnel from asking about a student’s immigration status or sharing information with immigration officials without legal documentation or a court order.

7. Professional development for educators: The Illinois State Board of Education offers professional development opportunities focused on supporting undocumented students, including training on how to address the social-emotional needs of immigrant children and youth.

8. Partnerships with community organizations: Many schools in Illinois partner with community-based organizations that specialize in providing support services for immigrant families, such as legal aid, mental health services, and educational resources.

Overall, while there is still room for improvement, the K-12 education system in Illinois has made strides in addressing the unique needs and challenges faced by undocumented students.

9. Is there a state-level program or scholarship specifically for Dreamers or DACA recipients in Illinois?

Yes, Illinois has a state-level program called the Illinois Dream Fund Scholarship that specifically provides funding for Dreamers and DACA recipients to attend college in the state. The program was established in 2015 and is administered by the Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC). Eligible applicants must demonstrate financial need, have a high school diploma or equivalent, and be enrolled or planning to enroll at an accredited Illinois institution. More information can be found on ISAC’s website.

10. What actions have educators and advocates taken to push for stronger legislation supporting undocumented students in Illinois?

1. SB 2185: In 2016, Senate Bill 2185 was introduced and passed in Illinois, allowing undocumented students to receive state-funded financial aid and scholarships.

2. Illinois Dream Fund: The Illinois Dream Fund was established in 2011 to provide college scholarships and career support for undocumented students in Illinois.

3. Campaigns and rallies: Various campaigns and rallies have been organized by educators and advocates to raise awareness about the challenges faced by undocumented students in Illinois.

4. Lobbying efforts: Educators, activists, and advocates have engaged in lobbying efforts to push for legislation that supports undocumented students’ rights and access to education.

5. Lawsuits against restrictive policies: Lawsuits have been filed against restrictive policies that limit or deny access to education for undocumented students, such as the policy denying admission to undocumented applicants at some public universities in Illinois.

6. Collaboration with community organizations: Educators and advocates have collaborated with community organizations that support undocumented students, such as the Immigrant Youth Justice League (IYJL) and the Latino Policy Forum.

7. Advocacy through research: Researchers conduct studies on the barriers faced by undocumented students in accessing higher education in Illinois, providing data-driven evidence for policymakers to consider when drafting legislation.

8. Political organizing: Educators and advocates work together to organize politically around issues impacting undocumented students, such as campaigning for pro-immigrant candidates and advocating for policy proposals that support this population.

9. Pushing for broader immigration reform: Educators and advocates recognize the importance of pushing for comprehensive immigration reform at the federal level that addresses issues beyond access to education, such as pathways to citizenship.

10. Raising public awareness: Through various media outlets, educators and advocates share stories of undocumented students’ struggles to raise awareness among the general public about their challenges and advocate for change.

11. Are there any limitations or restrictions placed on undocumented students accessing higher education in Illinois?

No, undocumented students in Illinois have the same rights and opportunities to access higher education as any other student. In 2015, Illinois passed the Illinois DREAM Act, which allows undocumented students to receive state-based financial aid and scholarships, in-state tuition rates at public universities, and access to private scholarships. Additionally, under federal law (Plyler v. Doe), all students, regardless of immigration status, have a right to attend public K-12 schools and colleges in the United States.

12. Has there been any backlash or opposition towards state legislation supporting undocumented students in Illinois?

There has been some opposition to legislation supporting undocumented students in Illinois. Some opponents argue that providing financial aid and other benefits to undocumented students takes resources away from legal residents and citizens, and that it rewards individuals who have broken the law by entering the country without authorization. There have also been concerns about potential increases in state taxes to fund these programs. Additionally, some opponents believe that undocumented students should not receive privileges or benefits until they are granted legal status in the United States. However, supporters of these measures argue that providing educational opportunities for immigrant populations benefits not only the individuals but also the economy and society as a whole.

13. What role do local school districts and universities play in implementing state policies for undocumented students?

Local school districts and universities play a significant role in implementing state policies for undocumented students. They are responsible for ensuring that all students within their jurisdiction have access to education, regardless of their immigration status.

Some potential roles that local school districts and universities may play in implementing state policies for undocumented students include:

1. Admission Policies: Local school districts and universities are responsible for setting their admission policies and procedures. This includes determining the eligibility criteria for undocumented students, such as whether they can attend school or enroll in specific programs or courses.

2. Outreach and Support: School districts and universities may also be responsible for reaching out to undocumented students to ensure they are aware of their rights and options. They may also provide support services such as counseling, language assistance, and resources to help these students succeed academically.

3. Financial Aid: In some states, undocumented students may be eligible for certain forms of financial aid. Local school districts and universities may be involved in disbursing this aid to eligible students.

4. Advocacy: Local school districts and universities can serve as advocates for undocumented students at the state level. They can provide input on proposed state policies that affect these students, offer recommendations on how to improve current policies, and advocate for equal access to education for all students regardless of immigration status.

5. Training Staff: School districts and universities may also train their staff members on how to support undocumented students effectively. This could include understanding the unique challenges faced by these students, resources available to them, and best practices for assisting them in achieving academic success.

6. Collaboration with Community Organizations: Local school districts and universities can partner with community organizations that provide support services specifically tailored to meet the needs of undocumented students.

Overall, local school districts and universities play a critical role in ensuring that state policies regarding undocumented students are effectively implemented within their communities. Their support is vital in creating an inclusive educational environment where all students have equal access to education and resources, regardless of their immigration status.

14. Is there data available on the enrollment, graduation rates, and academic success of undocumented college/university students in Illinois?

Yes, there is data available on the enrollment, graduation rates, and academic success of undocumented college/university students in Illinois. However, the availability and accuracy of this data can vary as undocumented students may not always disclose their status due to fear of deportation or discrimination.

According to the Illinois Association for College Admission Counseling, an estimated 690,000 undocumented immigrants live in Illinois in 2016. Of this population, it is estimated that about 5% are enrolled in colleges or universities in Illinois.

In terms of graduation rates for undocumented students in Illinois, a study by the University of California-Davis found that only 5-10% of undocumented high school graduates go on to attend college compared to 69% of their documented peers. However, there are no specific data available on the graduation rates for undocumented college/university students in Illinois.

As for academic success, a study by the Community College Consortium for Immigrant Education found that undocumented students at community colleges have a lower retention rate (48%) compared to documented or citizen students (67%). The study also found that while nearly half (49%) of non-undocumented college students complete an associate degree within 4 years and another 33% transfer to a four-year institution within the same time period, only 16% of undocumented community college students graduate within four years.

Overall, it can be challenging to accurately track the enrollment, graduation rates, and academic success of undocumented college/university students in Illinois due to privacy concerns surrounding their immigration status. More efforts are needed from institutions and researchers to collect and analyze data on this population in order to better understand their educational experiences and outcomes.

15. How does the availability of financial aid, both at the state and federal level, impact access to education for undocumented students in Illinois?

The availability of financial aid, both at the state and federal level, has a significant impact on access to education for undocumented students in Illinois. Undocumented students, also known as DREAMers or DACA recipients, face several financial barriers when trying to pursue higher education due to their immigration status.

At the state level, undocumented students in Illinois are eligible for certain forms of financial aid such as institutional aid and private scholarships. This is due to the passing of the Illinois Dream Act in 2011, which allows undocumented students who meet certain criteria to apply for and receive state-based institutional aid, including programs like the Monetary Award Program (MAP). This has helped make college more affordable for many undocumented students in Illinois.

However, at the federal level, undocumented students are not eligible for most forms of financial aid. This includes federal grants like the Pell Grant and loan programs like federal student loans. As a result, many undocumented students rely on alternative sources of funding such as private loans or scholarships. This can make it more difficult for them to afford college and limit their options when it comes to choosing a school.

The lack of federal financial aid also means that undocumented students may have limited access to resources such as work-study programs or campus employment opportunities typically available to other students. This can make it challenging for undocumented students to balance their academic responsibilities with job obligations in order to pay for their education.

Furthermore, without access to federal financial aid, some undocumented students may be forced to take on multiple jobs or work long hours outside of school in order to cover tuition costs. This can often result in academic difficulties and even dropping out of school altogether.

Overall, the availability of financial aid both at the state and federal level greatly impacts access to education for undocumented students in Illinois. While some state-level initiatives have provided relief for these students, there is still significant need for comprehensive immigration reform at the federal level that addresses issues related to access to higher education for undocumented individuals.

16.What efforts have been made by lawmakers to address issues of discrimination against undocumented students within educational institutions in Illinois?

There have been several efforts by lawmakers to address issues of discrimination against undocumented students in educational institutions in Illinois. Some of these efforts include:

1. The Illinois Religious Freedom and Protection Act: In 2015, the state passed this law which prohibits educational institutions from discriminating against students based on their immigration status. It also ensures that all students have access to education regardless of their immigration status.

2. The Illinois Trust Act: This law was passed in 2017 and prohibits law enforcement agencies from detaining or arresting individuals based solely on their immigration status. This helps protect undocumented students and their families from fear of deportation and discrimination.

3. SB 34 Tuition Equality Law: This law was enacted in 2003 and allows undocumented students who have attended at least three years of high school in the state to pay in-state tuition at public universities and colleges.

4. SB 60 In-State Resident Tuition for Military Service Members: This legislation, passed in 2014, allows military service members who are stationed in Illinois, including those without legal immigration status, to pay in-state tuition at public colleges and universities.

5. HB 2691 Undocumented Resident Tuition: This proposed bill would extend the eligibility for in-state tuition rates to all undocumented students who attend an Illinois high school for three or more years.

6. Accommodations for Undocumented Students: Many schools in Illinois have implemented policies allowing undocumented students to apply for financial aid or scholarships, as well as providing resources such as counseling services and peer support groups.

7.Harassment Protections: Schools are required to provide a safe learning environment free from harassment, including bullying based on immigration status under federal civil rights laws enforced by the Department of Education Office for Civil Rights (OCR). The OCR also enforces anti-discrimination laws surrounding language barriers that may impact a student’s ability to obtain an education.

8.Trustee Anti-Discrimination Policies: School boards in Illinois are not allowed to adopt measures to discriminate regarding admissibility or matching non-resident rates for fees. One recent amendment (PA 90-0421) went through a number of changes during the legislative process related to campus sexual assault.

17.How does compliance with federal immigration law impact policies and protections for immigrant and refugee children attending schools in Illinois?

Compliance with federal immigration law can have a significant impact on policies and protections for immigrant and refugee children attending schools in Illinois. In recent years, there has been increased attention and debate surrounding the rights of undocumented immigrants, especially with regards to access to education.

Firstly, compliance with federal immigration law may affect the enrollment of immigrant and refugee children in schools. The Supreme Court decision Plyler v. Doe (1982) established that all children, regardless of immigration status, have a right to attend public schools. However, fears and uncertainties over potential immigration enforcement actions may deter some families from enrolling their children in school. This could lead to lower enrollment rates among immigrant and refugee populations, resulting in potential educational disparities and barriers for these children.

Secondly, compliance with immigration laws may also impact schools’ ability to protect the privacy of immigrant and refugee students. The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) protects students’ education records from being shared without consent, including information about a student’s immigration status. However, recent changes to federal policy have raised concerns about government officials accessing sensitive student information through school databases or requiring schools to share information on their students’ immigration status.

Moreover, compliance with federal immigration laws may also affect the provision of services and resources for immigrant and refugee students in Illinois schools. For example, if federal funding for programs such as English Language Learner (ELL) or Title I is reduced or restricted due to changes in federal policy, it could hinder the support available for immigrant and refugee children who may need additional resources to succeed academically.

Additionally, compliance with federal immigration laws can also shape school district policies related to school safety and discipline practices. Some districts have proposed policies that allow ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) officers access to school grounds or require staff members to report suspected undocumented students within their classrooms. These types of policies can create an environment of fear within the school community and interfere with the learning and well-being of immigrant and refugee children.

It is essential for schools in Illinois to understand and comply with federal immigration laws while also upholding the rights and protections of all students, regardless of their immigration status. Creating a supportive and inclusive environment for immigrant and refugee students can positively impact their educational outcomes and promote a sense of belonging within the school community.

18.Are community colleges/universities required by law to accommodate and support undocumented students in Illinois?

Yes, community colleges and universities in Illinois are required by law to accommodate and support undocumented students. In August 2017, the state passed the Illinois TRUST Act, which prohibits local law enforcement agencies from detaining someone based solely on their immigration status. The act also requires all publicly funded institutions in the state, including community colleges and universities, to treat undocumented students like any other student and not disclose any student records or personal information without a court order.

Additionally, the Illinois Board of Higher Education (IBHE) released a statement in 2018 reaffirming their support for undocumented students and directing all public higher education institutions in the state to provide resources and support for these students. This includes allowing them access to financial aid, scholarships, in-state tuition rates, and other services offered to regular students.

Lastly, there are also various programs and organizations within these institutions that focus specifically on supporting undocumented students and creating a welcoming environment for them. Overall, there are legal requirements as well as supportive measures in place to ensure that undocumented students have equal access to education in Illinois.

19.What outreach and support services are available to help undocumented students in Illinois navigate the college admissions process?

There are several outreach and support services available to help undocumented students in Illinois navigate the college admissions process. Some of these include:
1. The Hispanic/Latino Resource Center (HLRC) at Northeastern Illinois University offers a variety of resources and support for undocumented students, including assistance with the college admissions process.
2. The Illinois Dream Fund Scholarship Program provides financial aid and mentoring to undocumented students pursuing higher education in Illinois.
3. The Student Outreach and Retention Center for Equity (SOURCE) at DePaul University provides support, resources, and advocacy for undocumented students.
4. The Young Center for Immigrant Children’s Rights has a College Access Program that helps low-income immigrant youth, including undocumented students, with the college admissions process.
5. The Latinx Recruitment and Retention Initiative (LRRI) at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign offers workshops, mentorship programs, and other resources for undocumented students.
6. The Office of Multicultural Student Affairs (OMSA) at Loyola University Chicago provides programming and support for first-generation and immigrant students, including those who are undocumented.
7. The Undocumented Student Resources Center at the University of Illinois at Chicago offers counseling services, advocacy, and educational programs specifically tailored to the needs of undocumented students.
8. The Illinois Coalition for Immigrant & Refugee Rights (ICIRR) has a College Readiness Program that offers workshops, legal advice, scholarship opportunities, and other services to help undocumented students prepare for college.
9. Many community organizations in Illinois also offer resources and support for undocumented students preparing for college, such as the Latino Policy Forum’s ‘Futures Matter’ program which provides college readiness workshops specifically targeted to immigrant youth.
10.The Department of Education’s “Dream.US” program awards scholarships specifically designed to help highly motivated DREAMers with financial need graduate from a Partner Community College like one near you – attend 1 U.S.-partnered Community College partner institution
.

20. What is the overall sentiment of residents in Illinois towards state legislation supporting undocumented students?

The overall sentiment of residents in Illinois towards state legislation supporting undocumented students is generally positive. Many Illinois residents view undocumented students as part of the state’s diverse community and support policies that provide them with educational opportunities and access to resources. There is also a recognition that many undocumented students were brought to the United States at a young age and have grown up in Illinois, making them de facto members of the community.

In addition, there is a sense of fairness and compassion among some residents towards undocumented students who face significant barriers to higher education and employment due to their immigration status. These sentiments are reflected in the widespread support for state legislation such as the Illinois DREAM Act, which provides financial aid and other benefits to undocumented students.

However, there may be some dissent or opposition towards state legislation supporting undocumented students from those who believe that these policies unfairly prioritize non-citizens over citizens or legal residents. There may also be concerns about the potential costs associated with providing benefits for undocumented students, particularly during times of economic hardship.

Overall, while there may be some differing opinions on specific policies, the majority of Illinois residents appear to be supportive of state legislation that helps to address the challenges faced by undocumented students in pursuing educational opportunities.