1. What legislation exists to support undocumented students in K-12 education in Illinois?

Illinois has a few pieces of legislation that support undocumented students in K-12 education. These include:

1. Illinois DREAM Act: This act, passed in 2011, allows undocumented students who have graduated from an Illinois high school to receive privately funded scholarships and grants for college.

2. Urban Immigrant Student Achievement Act: This act, also passed in 2011, provides funding to public schools with high numbers of immigrant students. The funds can be used for programs and services that support the academic success of immigrant students, including English language instruction and counseling services.

3. Allowing Undocumented Students Equal Access to College Education: This act, passed in 2003, allows undocumented students who attended at least three years of high school in Illinois to pay in-state tuition rates at public universities and community colleges.

4. Family Access to School Medicaid Act: This federal legislation requires states to provide Medicaid coverage for all children under age 19 regardless of their immigration status. Therefore, undocumented children are eligible to receive free or low-cost health care coverage through this program.

5. Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA): This federal education law prohibits schools from denying enrollment or discriminating against any student on the basis of race, national origin, religion, or immigration status.

6. Plyler v. Doe (1982): This court case ruled that states cannot deny access to a free public education based on a student’s immigration status.

In addition to these laws, many school districts in Illinois have adopted policies and procedures specifically aimed at supporting undocumented students and creating safe and inclusive learning environments for all students regardless of their immigration status.

2. How does Illinois protect the rights of undocumented students in K-12 schools?

The state of Illinois provides certain protections for undocumented students in K-12 schools through various laws and policies. These protections include:

1. Equal Access to Education: Under both state and federal law, all children, regardless of immigration status, have the right to attend public elementary and secondary schools in the United States. This includes children who are undocumented or have immigrant parents.

2. HB 60 (2013): In 2013, Illinois passed a law known as HB 60 that prohibits public schools from asking about the immigration status of students or their parents during enrollment.

3. Protection Against Discrimination: Undocumented students are protected against discrimination based on their immigration status under the state’s Human Rights Act, which prohibits discrimination in all areas including education.

4. Driver’s Licenses: In 2013, Illinois began issuing driver’s licenses to undocumented immigrants, including teenagers who are able to obtain a Temporary Visitor Driver’s License (TVDL) if they meet certain requirements.

5. In-State Tuition for Undocumented Students: The state of Illinois allows undocumented students who meet specific criteria to pay in-state tuition rates at public colleges and universities.

6. College Scholarship Opportunities: The state offers some financial aid opportunities for undocumented students attending college. For example, the Student Assistance Commission has an Illinois Dream Fund that provides scholarships to undocumented students who meet certain criteria.

7. Confidentiality Policies: Some school districts in Illinois have implemented confidentiality policies that prohibit the disclosure of student information without permission or legal documents from a court order or subpoena.

8. Educational Support Programs: Many schools in Illinois provide additional support for English language learners and immigrant students through programs such as English as a Second Language (ESL) classes or bilingual education programs.

9. Safe Zones: Some schools in the state have designated safe zones for undocumented students and families, where they can feel safe and receive support from school staff without fear of deportation or other consequences.

Overall, the state of Illinois has taken steps to protect the rights of undocumented students in K-12 schools by creating policies and laws that promote equal access to education and protect against discrimination.

3. Does Illinois offer any financial support or resources for undocumented students in K-12 schooling?

Yes, Illinois offers some financial support and resources for undocumented students in K-12 schooling. This includes:

1) In-state tuition: Under the Illinois Dream Act, undocumented students who have attended an Illinois high school for at least three years may qualify for in-state tuition rates at public colleges and universities in the state.

2) State-funded scholarships: Undocumented students may be eligible for some state-funded scholarships, such as the Monarch Awards Program, which is open to Illinois residents regardless of immigration status.

3) Access to financial aid through partnerships with private organizations: Some private organizations, such as TheDream.US and Golden Apple Scholars of Illinois, offer financial aid and scholarships specifically for undocumented students in partnership with the state of Illinois.

4) Support from organizations and community groups: There are several organizations and community groups in Illinois that provide resources and support to undocumented students. These include immigrant rights advocacy groups like the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights (ICIRR), educational organizations like the Latino Policy Forum, and scholarship programs like The I.M.A.G.E Scholarship.

5) High School/College Partnerships: Many public high schools in Illinois have partnerships with local community colleges or universities that allow eligible undocumented students to enroll without paying out-of-state tuition rates.

6) English Language Learner (ELL) support: Undocumented students who are English language learners can receive additional support through special programs offered by their school or district.

7) Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA): While DACA does not offer direct financial assistance, it does provide temporary protection from deportation and work authorization, which can make it easier for undocumented students to participate in internships or part-time employment opportunities while in high school.

4. Is there a pathway to citizenship for long-term undocumented students in Illinois who graduate high school?

Yes, there are several potential pathways to citizenship for long-term undocumented students in Illinois who graduate high school.

1. Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) – This program was implemented in 2012 under the Obama administration and provides temporary protection from deportation and work authorization to eligible individuals who came to the US as children before June 15, 2007. To be eligible, applicants must have entered the US before their 16th birthday, continuously resided in the US since June 15, 2007, and meet other requirements such as education or military service.

2. Military Service – Undocumented individuals who serve in the US military may be eligible for expedited citizenship through special programs like Military Accessions Vital to National Interest (MAVNI).

3. U Visa – Victims of certain crimes who assist law enforcement may be eligible for a U visa, which can lead to permanent resident status after three years.

4. Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS) – Children who have been abused, abandoned, or neglected by one or both parents may be able to obtain permanent resident status through SIJS if they obtain a court order declaring that it would not be in their best interest to return to their home country.

5. Asylum or refugee status – Individuals who have suffered persecution or fear future persecution on account of race, religion, nationality, political opinion or membership in a social group may apply for asylum or refugee status. If granted, this can lead to permanent resident status after one year.

It is important to note that eligibility and application processes vary based on individual circumstances and it is recommended to seek guidance from an immigration lawyer for specific cases. Additionally, proposed federal legislation such as the DREAM Act could provide a pathway to citizenship for undocumented students brought here as children if passed into law.

5. What accommodations are provided to English Language Learners, including undocumented students, in Illinois’s K-12 schools?

1. English as a Second Language (ESL) Programs: Illinois provides ESL programs to ensure that students with limited English proficiency are able to learn the necessary language skills to fully participate in academic instruction. These programs often include specialized coursework and instructional strategies for non-native English speakers.

2. Bilingual Education Programs: Students who are classified as Limited English Proficient (LEP) may also qualify for bilingual education, where they receive instruction in both their native language and English. This program aims to promote academic achievement by providing access to core subjects while also building proficient language skills.

3. Language Support Classes: Schools may offer language support classes for ELLs at the elementary level, where students receive additional instruction in reading, writing, listening, and speaking in English.

4. Accommodations for Standardized Testing: Illinois offers accommodations on standardized tests for ELLs, including extra time, use of translation dictionaries, and testing in their native language.

5. Individualized Education Plans (IEPs): Undocumented students who have special needs or disabilities may be eligible for an IEP which outlines specific accommodations and modifications that will support their learning.

6. Cultural Competency Training: Some schools provide cultural competency training to teachers and staff to help them better understand and support ELLs from diverse backgrounds.

7. Additional Resources: Schools may also provide various resources such as bilingual counselors or translators, after-school tutoring services, or family outreach programs to further support ELLs’ academic success.

8. Protection Under State Laws: In Illinois, undocumented students have the right to access K-12 education without discrimination based on immigration status under state laws such as the Illinois Human Rights Act and the School Code.

9. Consideration of Social-Emotional Needs: Schools may also consider the social-emotional needs of ELLs and provide counseling or other support services to ensure their emotional well-being while adjusting to a new culture and learning environment.

6. Are there restrictions on immigration enforcement activities within Illinois’s K-12 schools?

Yes, there are restrictions on immigration enforcement activities within Illinois’s K-12 schools. The Illinois Trust Act states that state and local law enforcement agencies, including school districts, cannot detain or arrest individuals at the request of federal immigration authorities or participate in certain joint task forces with immigration authorities without a court order. Additionally, schools are prohibited from sharing information about a student’s immigration status unless required by law.

7. How does Illinois’s legislation address the enrollment of undocumented students in K-12 schools?

Illinois has passed laws and policies to ensure that all children, regardless of their immigration status, have access to a public education in the state. This includes:

1. The Illinois School Code: This law explicitly states that all children between the ages of 5 and 21, whether they are undocumented or not, have the right to enroll in and attend public schools in Illinois.

2. The Tuition Guarantee Act: This law mandates that all public colleges and universities in Illinois offer in-state tuition rates to undocumented students who attend at least three years of high school in the state.

3. The Student Access to Education and Right to Privacy Act (SAFER): This act prohibits schools from asking about or sharing any information on a student’s immigration status. It also prohibits schools from denying enrollment based on immigration status.

4. Illinois DREAM Act: This act provides scholarships, grants, and loans to eligible undocumented students who attend college in Illinois.

In addition to these laws, Illinois also has guidance for schools on how to handle immigration-related issues and provide support for immigrant students. For example, the State Superintendent of Education issued guidelines for addressing bullying based on immigration status and provided resources for schools on how to support immigrant students’ mental health needs.

8. Are there any specific educational programs or services available to support the academic success of undocumented students in K-12 schools in Illinois?

Yes, there are specific educational programs and services available to support the academic success of undocumented students in K-12 schools in Illinois. Some of these include:

1. DACA: The Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program allows young undocumented immigrants who came to the United States as children to apply for temporary protection from deportation and work authorization. This can provide opportunities for education, such as access to higher education and financial aid.

2. “Safe Zone” training: Many schools in Illinois offer “safe zone” training for teachers and administrators to create a welcoming environment for all students, including undocumented students.

3. Advocacy organizations: There are several organizations that advocate for the rights of undocumented students in Illinois, such as the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights (ICIRR) and the National Immigrant Justice Center (NIJC). These organizations can provide resources and support for undocumented students in K-12 schools.

4. School-based advocacy groups: Several schools in Illinois have formed student-led advocacy groups to represent the needs and concerns of undocumented students within their school community.

5. Bilingual education programs: Many schools in Illinois offer bilingual education programs that can help undocumented students who may have limited English proficiency.

6. School counselors: School counselors can be a valuable resource for undocumented students, providing guidance on college options, career planning, and addressing any mental health or social-emotional needs.

7. College Access Programs: Organizations like “The Dream.US” offer college access programs specifically designed for DREAMers – young undocumented immigrants who came to the U.S before age 16.

8. State financial aid options: In Illinois, some state-funded financial aid programs are open to eligible undocumented students, including the Monetary Award Program (MAP) grant.

9. Inclusive curriculum and teaching materials: Schools in Illinois are encouraged to promote diversity and inclusivity through their curriculum and teaching materials, which can help create a supportive and inclusive environment for undocumented students.

10. Know Your Rights workshops: Some organizations and advocacy groups offer “Know Your Rights” workshops specifically for undocumented students to inform them about their rights and how to navigate the educational system in Illinois.

9. What legal protections are in place for DACA recipients attending K-12 schools in Illinois?

There are several legal protections in place for DACA recipients attending K-12 schools in Illinois:

1. The Illinois School Code: This code prohibits discrimination based on immigration status, making it illegal for schools to deny enrollment to any student on the basis of their immigration status.

2. Plyler v. Doe decision: In this landmark Supreme Court case, it was ruled that all children, regardless of their immigration status, have a constitutional right to a free public education.

3. DACA program: Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) is a federal program that provides temporary protection and work authorization for eligible individuals who came to the US as children. This allows DACA recipients to attend K-12 schools without fear of deportation.

4. Equal Protection Clause: The 14th Amendment of the US Constitution guarantees equal protection under the law, which means that DACA recipients cannot be denied access to education because of their immigration status.

5. Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA): Under this federal law, schools are required to protect the privacy of students’ records, including immigration status information.

6. State laws: In addition to the protections outlined above, there may be additional state laws in place that provide additional safeguards for immigrant students, such as non-discrimination policies or tuition equity laws allowing eligible undocumented students to pay in-state tuition rates at public universities.

It is important for DACA recipients attending K-12 schools in Illinois to familiarize themselves with these legal protections and seek help from school officials or legal advocates if they believe their rights are being violated.

10. Does Illinois’s legislation allow for access to higher education for undocumented students graduating from K-12 institutions?

Yes, Illinois has legislation in place that allows for access to higher education for undocumented students graduating from K-12 institutions. This legislation is known as the Illinois Dream Act and was signed into law in 2011.

The Illinois Dream Act allows eligible undocumented students to apply for state-funded financial aid, including scholarships, grants, and waivers, to help cover the cost of attending college. To be eligible, students must have attended an Illinois high school for at least three years and must graduate from an Illinois high school or obtain a General Equivalency Diploma (GED) in the state.

Additionally, the law created a special commission called the Illinois Dream Fund Commission, which works to raise private funds and administer scholarships for eligible undocumented students who are not able to receive state-funded aid.

In 2015, legislation was also passed allowing undocumented students with Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) status to be eligible for in-state tuition rates at public universities and community colleges in Illinois. This means that these students can pay significantly lower tuition costs than out-of-state students.

Overall, Illinois’s legislation allows for greater access to higher education for undocumented students graduating from K-12 institutions by providing financial aid opportunities and in-state tuition options.

11. Are there any state laws that prohibit discrimination against undocumented students in K-12 enrollment and education?

Yes, there are state laws that prohibit discrimination against undocumented students in K-12 enrollment and education in certain states. Some examples include:

1) California: The California Education Code section 48204 states that school districts cannot deny enrollment to students based on their immigration status or require social security numbers for enrollment.

2) Illinois: Under the Illinois School Code, schools cannot discriminate against students based on their immigration status and are required to provide equal access to educational programs and services.

3) New York: The New York Education Law section 3201 prohibits schools from denying enrollment to students based on their immigration status. Schools also cannot require proof of immigration status for enrollment.

4) Texas: The Texas Education Code section 25.001 specifically states that all children, regardless of their citizenship or immigration status, have the right to a free public education.

It is important to note that these laws may vary by state and there may be additional protections provided at the local level. It is recommended for individuals to research specific state laws and regulations regarding undocumented student enrollment and education.

12. How does Illinois’s legislation address the unique needs and challenges of undocumented students in the K-12 education system?

Illinois’s legislation supports the rights and opportunities of undocumented students in the K-12 education system in several ways:

1. Access to Education: Under Illinois law, all children, regardless of their immigration status, have a right to attend public schools from kindergarten to 12th grade. This means that undocumented students are entitled to the same educational opportunities as their classmates.

2. No Discrimination: Schools in Illinois are prohibited from discriminating against students based on their immigration status. This includes denying enrollment, imposing different admission requirements, or restricting access to any school programs based on a student’s immigration status.

3. Free Lunch Program: Undocumented students who qualify for free or reduced-price meals may participate in the National School Lunch Program without having to provide Social Security numbers or other personal information that could reveal their immigration status.

4. In-State Tuition: In 2003, Illinois became one of the first states to allow undocumented students who meet certain criteria (such as attending an Illinois high school for at least three years) to pay in-state tuition rates at public colleges and universities.

5. Financial Aid Access: In 2019, Illinois passed a law allowing undocumented and transgender students to receive state financial aid for college if they meet certain eligibility requirements.

6. Immigration Safe Zones: Under the TRUST Act, Illinois schools are designated as “Safe Zones” where U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents are not allowed without a court order or warrant unless necessary for purposes unrelated to immigration enforcement.

7. Professional Development for Educators: The state provides professional development opportunities for educators on issues faced by undocumented students and how best to support them in the classroom.

8. Privacy Protections: Schools are required by law to protect the personal information of all students and their families, including their immigration status.

Overall, these laws aim to ensure that undocumented students can participate fully in K-12 education without fear of discrimination or deportation, and have access to higher education and the resources needed to achieve their goals.

13. Is there any financial aid or scholarships available specifically for undocumented students attending K-12 schools in Illinois?

Yes, there are some financial aid and scholarship opportunities available specifically for undocumented students attending K-12 schools in Illinois. Some examples include:

1. Illinois Dream Fund – Provides scholarships for undocumented students who have graduated from an Illinois high school and are enrolled or planning to enroll in an Illinois college, university, or vocational school.

2. The Latino Summit Scholars program – Provides scholarships to Latino students, including undocumented students, who are residents of Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry, or Will counties in Illinois.

3. The Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital Undocumented Student Scholarship – Awarded to a graduating senior with Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) status and pursuing higher education at an accredited college or university.

4. LC4DACA Scholarships – Offers scholarships to DACA-eligible students aged 17-26 who live in the Chicago area.

5. The Golden Apple Scholars of Illinois Program – Provides financial assistance to aspiring teachers, including undocumented students, who commit to teaching at high-needs schools in Illinois after graduation.

Additionally, undocumented students may be eligible for other general scholarship opportunities that do not require proof of citizenship or legal residency status such as private scholarships and merit-based awards. It is important for students to research and apply for any available scholarship opportunities that they meet the eligibility criteria for.

14. Are parents’ or guardians’ immigration status taken into consideration during enrollment of their children into K-12 schools in Illinois?

No, parents’ or guardians’ immigration status is not taken into consideration during enrollment of their children into K-12 schools in Illinois. All children have the right to attend public schools regardless of their immigration status, and schools are prohibited from discriminating against students based on their or their family’s immigration status.

15. What efforts has Illinois made to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for all students, regardless of their immigration status, within its K-12 schools?

Illinois has taken several steps to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for all students, regardless of their immigration status, in its K-12 schools. These efforts include:

1. Prohibition of discrimination based on immigration status: Illinois law prohibits discrimination in schools based on immigration status. This ensures that students will not be denied access to education or educational benefits because of their immigration status.

2. Sanctuary school policies: Many school districts in Illinois have adopted “sanctuary school” policies that promise to protect the privacy and safety of undocumented students and their families. These policies restrict the sharing of student information with immigration enforcement agencies and provide resources for undocumented students.

3. Admission of all students regardless of immigration status: All children in Illinois are entitled to attend public schools, regardless of their immigration status. This is supported by a 1982 Supreme Court ruling stating that no state can deny access to education for undocumented children.

4. Availability of financial aid for undocumented students: In 2019, Illinois passed a law allowing undocumented students to apply for state financial aid, including the Monetary Award Program (MAP) Grant – this includes both high school graduates and GED recipients who demonstrate financial need and have attended at least three years of high school in Illinois.

5. Culturally responsive teaching training: The Illinois State Board of Education offers trainings for educators on culturally responsive teaching practices, which can help create an inclusive classroom environment for immigrant students.

6. Multilingual services and resources: Schools in Illinois are required to provide language assistance services to Limited English Proficient (LEP) students and their families, including translations, interpretation services, and multilingual informational materials.

7. Support for newcomer and refugee youth: The Illinois Refugee Resettlement Program provides funding to support refugee youth who may be facing unique challenges due to their migration experience. This includes social-emotional support, academic support, language assistance, and cultural orientations.

8. Anti-bullying policies and programs: Many school districts in Illinois have anti-bullying policies and programs in place to promote a safe and inclusive environment for all students, including immigrant students who may be targets of discrimination or harassment.

9. Collaboration with immigrant rights organizations: The Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights (ICIRR) has partnered with schools and school districts to provide training and resources on supporting immigrant students and families, as well as advocating for immigrant-friendly policies.

10. Support for undocumented parents: Schools in Illinois can help support undocumented parents by connecting them with legal services, providing language assistance, and ensuring their children’s access to education is not hindered by their immigration status. Additionally, some schools offer English as a Second Language (ESL) classes or workshops for adults to improve their language skills.

Overall, Illinois has taken steps to create an inclusive environment for all students, regardless of their immigration status, by implementing policies that protect the rights of undocumented students, providing resources and support for immigrant students and families, promoting cultural understanding and sensitivity among educators, and working with community organizations to advocate for immigrant-friendly policies.

16. Are teachers and school staff trained on how to support and work with undocumented students under current state legislation?

It is not explicitly required for teachers and school staff to be trained on how to support and work with undocumented students under current state legislation. However, schools may choose to provide this type of training in order to better support all students, including those who may have unique needs or experiences.

17. How does Illinois’s legislation ensure that undocumented students in K-12 schools have access to equal educational opportunities?

Illinois has various laws and policies in place to ensure that undocumented students have access to equal educational opportunities in K-12 schools. Some of these measures include the following:

1. In-state tuition: Illinois offers in-state tuition rates to all students who have attended an Illinois high school for at least three years, regardless of their immigration status. This makes higher education more accessible and affordable for undocumented students.

2. Financial aid: Undocumented students in Illinois are eligible to apply for state financial aid, as well as private scholarships offered by colleges and universities.

3. English Language Learner (ELL) Programs: Illinois requires all schools to provide appropriate and effective programs for ELLs, regardless of their immigration status. This ensures that undocumented students have equal access to language instruction programs.

4. Equal Educational Opportunities Act: This law prohibits public schools from discriminating against any student based on race, color, national origin, religion, or immigration status.

5. McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act: This federal act ensures that homeless students, including those who are undocumented, have equal access to education and related services.

6. Education for Children of Immigrants Program: This program provides additional funding to schools with high populations of immigrant students, including undocumented students, to help them meet the needs of these students.

7. Undocumented Student Liaison: Many school districts in Illinois have designated staff members as Undocumented Student Liaisons whose role is to provide support and resources specifically for undocumented students and their families.

8. Safe Zones/Rapid Response Teams: Some school districts in Illinois have created Safe Zones or Rapid Response Teams made up of teachers, administrators, counselors and other school personnel who are trained to provide support and resources to immigrant families facing immigration enforcement actions.

Overall, these laws and policies help ensure that undocumented students are not denied access to education or discriminated against because of their immigration status in K-12 schools in Illinois.

18. What resources are available for families of undocumented students in Illinois to navigate the K-12 education system?

1. Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights (ICIRR): ICIRR provides resources and support to undocumented families in Illinois, including information on education rights and advocacy efforts.

2. Office of Language and Cultural Education (OLCE): This office within the Illinois State Board of Education provides programs and resources for English Language Learners, including undocumented students.

3. Immigration Project: A non-profit organization that offers legal services and resources for immigrants in Champaign, DeKalb, Logan, Macon, McLean, Peoria, Vermilion and other areas in Central and Southern Illinois.

4. Protecting Immigrant Families -Illinois: A coalition of organizations dedicated to providing resources and support for immigrant families in Illinois.

5. Latino Policy Forum: The Forum works to improve education outcomes for Latino students in Illinois through research, policy advocacy and community engagement.

6. Illinois Migrant Council: Offers support services for migrant families including education assistance, advocacy and outreach programs.

7. Resurrection Project’s Community Schools Initiative: The program aims to engage parents in their children’s education by providing them with information on navigating the school system and connecting them with resources.

8. United We Dream: A national organization focused on empowering immigrant youth through education, leadership development, advocacy efforts and more.

9. M.A.P.S (Mental Attitude Preparation Skills) Program: An educational mentoring program for Hispanic high school students that focuses on developing academic skills as well as personal growth.

10. Immigration Project-Kenwood Academy DACA Clinic: Provides free legal screenings and application assistance for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipients at Kenwood Academy High School in Chicago.

11. National Partnership for New Americans-Illinois Branch: Provides citizenship classes and legal clinics across several locations throughout Chicago Land area at affordable or free costs.

12. Centro Romero-Youth Empowerment Program: Provides leadership development programs designed to empower immigrant youth through education, mentoring and advocacy efforts.

13. Little Village Lawndale High School Immigration Clinic: Offers free legal screenings, consultations and referrals for DACA recipients and other immigration cases.

14. Illinois Latino Council on Higher Education: Provides resources for Latino students looking to pursue higher education in Illinois.

15. ICIRR-Urban Community Leadership Academy (UCLA): A leadership program designed to educate and empower immigrant youth through community organizing, civic engagement, and advocacy efforts.

16. Bright Promises Foundation: Provides grants to organizations that support vulnerable children and families in Illinois including immigrant families.

17. Chicago Public Schools Office of Language and Cultural Education: Provides resources, services and support for English Language Learners enrolled in Chicago Public Schools.

18. Legal Assistance Foundation-Illinois: This organization provides legal assistance to low-income individuals including immigrants who may need legal help with education-related issues such as discrimination or language access concerns.

19. Has there been any recent legislative changes or updates to support the rights and needs of undocumented students in K-12 schools in Illinois?

Yes, there have been recent legislative changes and updates to support the rights and needs of undocumented students in K-12 schools in Illinois. In 2016, Illinois passed the Student Access Bill (SB 2196), which allows undocumented students who meet certain criteria to be eligible for state financial aid, including the Monetary Award Program (MAP) grant. This bill also prohibits schools from discriminating against students on the basis of their immigration status.

In 2017, Illinois passed the Education for Youth Empowerment (EYE) Act (HB 2691), which expands educational opportunities for undocumented youth by allowing them to apply for scholarships and grants through the Illinois Student Assistance Commission.

Additionally, in 2019, Illinois enacted the Keep Our Pact Act (SB 1608), which ensures that information about students’ immigration status is kept confidential and cannot be shared with federal immigration authorities without a court order or subpoena. This act also requires schools to provide students with resources and referrals to legal services if they are facing immigration issues.

Furthermore, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, Governor JB Pritzker issued Executive Order 20-36, which ensures that all children have equal access to education regardless of their immigration status. This order prohibits K-12 schools from denying enrollment or educational services based on a student’s immigration status.

Overall, these legislative changes demonstrate a commitment from the state of Illinois to protect and support undocumented students in K-12 schools.

20. How does Illinois compare to other states in terms of legislation and policies supporting undocumented students in K-12 education?

Illinois is considered one of the most supportive states for undocumented students in terms of legislation and policies in K-12 education. In 2016, Illinois passed the “Illinois Trust Act,” which prohibits local law enforcement agencies from detaining individuals solely based on their immigration status. This ensures that undocumented students and their families feel safe sending their children to school without fear of deportation.

Additionally, Illinois has implemented various initiatives to support undocumented students’ access to higher education, such as the Illinois Dream Fund Commission, which provides scholarships and financial aid resources to undocumented students. The state has also established a task force to address and improve the experience of undocumented youth in the education system.

Compared to other states, Illinois is also one of the few states that allows undocumented students to receive state financial aid for higher education through its Alternative Application for Undocumented Students. However, it should be noted that there is no federal or national legislation specifically addressing undocumented student access to education. Therefore, while some states may have more comprehensive policies than others, overall support for undocumented students varies greatly across the country.