State Legislation Supporting Undocumented Students in K-12 in New Jersey

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


The New Jersey Department of Education (NJDOE) has established guidance and policies to support the education of undocumented students in K-12 schools in the state. These include:

1. Plyler v. Doe: In 1982, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in Plyler v. Doe that all children, regardless of immigration status, have a constitutional right to a free public education.

2. Executive Order 72: In 2014, then Governor Chris Christie signed Executive Order 72, also known as the “DREAM Act,” which allows undocumented students who meet certain criteria to pay in-state tuition at New Jersey public colleges and universities.

3. Tuition Equity for DREAMers: Under this policy, undocumented students who have attended a New Jersey high school for at least three years and have graduated are eligible for in-state tuition rates at public colleges and universities.

4. Bilingual Education Law: This law requires that schools provide bilingual or English as a Second Language (ESL) instruction to students who are Limited English Proficient (LEP).

5. Equal Educational Opportunities Act: This federal law prohibits discrimination against LEP students and requires schools to provide them with language assistance services so they can access educational programs.

6. Statewide Transfer Agreement Law: This law allows students attending community colleges under the DREAM Act to seamlessly transfer credits into four-year institutions.

7. School Enrollment Guidance for Students without Immigration Documents: This guidance from NJDOE states that schools cannot deny enrollment or access based on immigration status, require proof of citizenship or social security number for enrollment, or inquire about immigration status during enrollment.

8. Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA): This federal law protects the privacy of student records and prevents schools from disclosing information about immigration status without prior consent from parents or guardians.

9. Immigration Services Protection Act (ISPA): Under this law, it is illegal for any person to provide immigration services without a license from NJDOE. This protects students and their families from being taken advantage of by unscrupulous individuals.

Overall, while there is no specific legislation that solely focuses on the education of undocumented students in K-12 schools, these policies and laws work together to protect and support their access to education in New Jersey.

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


Under New Jersey law, undocumented students have the right to attend K-12 public schools regardless of their immigration status. They are protected by the federal Equal Educational Opportunities Act (EEOA) and state laws that prohibit discrimination based on immigration status.

Specifically, schools in New Jersey must:

1. Provide equal access to education: Schools must ensure that undocumented students have the same access to educational programs and services as other students.

2. Not ask for or collect information about immigration status: Schools cannot ask for or collect information about a student’s immigration status during enrollment or throughout their time in school.

3. Maintain strict confidentiality: Any information that a school does receive about a student’s immigration status must be kept confidential and not shared with anyone outside of the school administration, except in limited circumstances (such as complying with a court order).

4. Provide language assistance: Schools must provide language assistance to students who do not speak English as their first language, including providing interpreters or translated materials when necessary.

5. Offer free and reduced-price meals: Undocumented students are eligible for free or reduced-price school meals if they meet income eligibility requirements.

6. Not require proof of citizenship: Schools cannot require proof of citizenship or legal residency for admission to school.

In addition, the New Jersey Department of Education has issued guidance to schools on supporting immigrant students and creating safe and inclusive environments for all students regardless of their immigration status. This includes encouraging schools to have policies in place to protect undocumented students from harassment and bullying, provide resources for families facing immigration-related issues, and train staff on how to support undocumented students.

Overall, New Jersey strives to create an inclusive and supportive environment for all students, regardless of their immigration status.

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


Yes, New Jersey offers financial support and resources for undocumented students in K-12 schooling. These include:

1. Equal Funding for All Students: Under the law, all students in New Jersey are entitled to an equal education regardless of their immigration status. This means that undocumented students have the right to enroll in public schools and receive a free education.

2. In-State Tuition for Undocumented Students: In 2013, New Jersey passed a law allowing undocumented students who attended high school in the state for at least three years to pay in-state tuition rates at participating public colleges and universities.

3. Access to State Financial Aid: Undocumented students who meet certain requirements are also eligible to apply for state financial aid through programs such as Tuition Aid Grants (TAG) and New Jersey Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF).

4. Support from Migrant Education Programs: New Jersey has several Migrant Education Programs funded by the U.S. Department of Education that offer academic support, tutoring, counseling, and other services specifically for migrant or seasonal farmworker families, many of whom may be undocumented.

5. Legal Advocacy Organizations: There are also several organizations in New Jersey that provide legal assistance and resources to undocumented students and their families, including education-related issues.

6. School-Based Mental Health Services: Some schools in New Jersey offer mental health services such as counseling or therapy to all students, including undocumented students.

7. Immigrant Student Success Centers: Some school districts have established Immigrant Student Success Centers to provide additional support and resources to immigrant and refugee students, including undocumented students.

8. Scholarships: Many private organizations and foundations offer scholarships specifically for undocumented students or DACA recipients who reside in New Jersey.

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


Yes, undocumented students who have graduated from high school in New Jersey may be eligible for a pathway to citizenship under the Development, Relief, and Education for Alien Minors (DREAM) Act. This federal legislation provides a path to citizenship for certain young undocumented individuals who arrived in the US as children and meet specific requirements, including having a high school diploma or GED. It is important to note that the DREAM Act has not yet been passed by Congress, but there are ongoing efforts to pass similar state-level legislation in New Jersey that would provide a pathway to citizenship for some undocumented students. Additionally, individuals may also be able to obtain permanent residency or citizenship through other means such as marriage to a US citizen or employment sponsorship.

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


In New Jersey’s K-12 schools, accommodations are provided to English Language Learners (ELLs) in order to support them in their language development and academic success. These accommodations include:

1. English as a Second Language (ESL) Classes: ELLs are provided with ESL classes where they receive specialized instruction in English language skills such as reading, writing, listening, and speaking.

2. Bilingual Education Programs: In some cases, ELLs may also have the option to enroll in bilingual education programs where they can receive instruction in both their native language and English.

3. ESL Support Services: ELLs may also receive additional support services from certified ESL teachers who work with them on specific language skills needed for academic success.

4. Modified Instructional Materials: Schools may provide modified instructional materials for ELLs such as bilingual textbooks or translated materials to assist them in understanding content.

5. Individualized Education Plans (IEPs): For students with disabilities who are also ELLs, individualized education plans may be created to address both their special education needs and their language learning needs.

6. Cultural Awareness and Sensitivity Training: Schools often offer cultural awareness and sensitivity training for teachers and staff to better understand the cultural backgrounds of ELLs and how to best support them.

7. Testing Accommodations: ELLs are provided with testing accommodations such as extra time or a linguistic modification of tests to ensure fairness and accuracy of assessment results.

In addition, undocumented students have the same rights to educational opportunities as any other student in New Jersey’s K-12 schools, regardless of immigration status. This includes access to all available accommodations for ELLs. In 2014, Governor Christie signed into law the New Jersey Tuition Equality Act which allows undocumented students who meet certain requirements to pay in-state tuition at public colleges and universities in the state.

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


Yes, New Jersey has specific restrictions on immigration enforcement activities within K-12 schools. In 2018, Governor Phil Murphy signed the Immigrant Trust Directive, which limits the ability of state and local law enforcement agencies to cooperate with federal immigration authorities. Under this directive, schools are specifically designated as “safe zones” where ICE agents are not permitted to enter without a warrant or where local law enforcement cannot provide information about a student’s immigration status unless required by state or federal law.

Additionally, New Jersey’s Comprehensive Immigration Trust Directive prohibits public school staff from inquiring about a student’s immigration status or sharing that information with ICE unless it is required by state or federal law. The directive also prohibits public school staff from discriminating against students based on their immigration status.

Furthermore, New Jersey does not permit local police departments to enforce federal civil immigration laws and they must limit their cooperation with ICE to situations involving serious crimes.

Overall, these restrictions aim to protect the rights and privacy of immigrant students in New Jersey’s K-12 schools and provide them with a safe learning environment.

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


Under New Jersey’s legislation, undocumented students are generally allowed to enroll in and attend K-12 schools without any restrictions. In 1982, the Supreme Court case Plyler v. Doe ruled that barring undocumented children from public education is a violation of their constitutional rights.

The state also has specific policies in place to support and protect undocumented students, including:

1. Non-discrimination policy: All public schools in New Jersey are required to have policies that prohibit discrimination based on immigration status or national origin.

2. Confidentiality: Schools must keep a student’s immigration status confidential unless required by law, such as reporting certain crimes to law enforcement.

3. In-state tuition for higher education: Undocumented students who graduate from high school in New Jersey are eligible for in-state tuition rates at public universities and colleges.

4. Access to financial aid: Undocumented students may be eligible for state financial aid programs if they meet certain criteria, such as attending high school in New Jersey for at least three years.

5. English language proficiency: Undocumented students are entitled to receive language support services if they are English learners.

6. Special education services: Undocumented students with disabilities have the same rights to special education services as other students under the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).

Overall, New Jersey’s legislation aims to ensure that all children have access to a quality education regardless of their immigration status.

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


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

1. New Jersey DREAM Act: This program allows eligible undocumented students to receive in-state tuition rates at public colleges and universities in New Jersey.

2. Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF) Program: EOF provides financial assistance and supportive services to low-income, first-generation college students, including undocumented students. This program helps these students successfully complete their undergraduate education.

3. English as a Second Language (ESL) Programs: Many school districts in NJ offer ESL programs to support non-native English speakers, including undocumented students, in developing their language skills.

4. Multilingual Resource Centers: These centers provide resources and support for bilingual/ESL teachers, parents, and students to ensure academic success for non-native English speakers.

5. Counselors and Social Workers: Schools often have counselors or social workers who can provide emotional support to undocumented students and help connect them with resources for academic success.

6. Legal Support Services: Some schools may have partnerships with legal organizations that can provide free or low-cost legal assistance to undocumented students and their families.

7. Student Organizations: There may be student groups at schools that focus on supporting undocumented students or promoting awareness of immigration issues. These organizations can provide a community of support for undocumented students.

8. Affinity Spaces: Affinity spaces are safe spaces where marginalized groups can come together for support and solidarity. Schools may have affinity spaces specifically for undocumented students to connect with others who share similar experiences and challenges.

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

In New Jersey, DACA recipients are entitled to the same legal protections as other students attending K-12 schools. This includes:

1. Equal access to education: DACA recipients have the right to attend public schools in New Jersey, regardless of their immigration status.

2. Protection from discrimination: Under state and federal laws, all students, including DACA recipients, are protected from discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability or age.

3. Language assistance: Schools must provide language assistance to English language learners (ELLs) and multilingual families in order to ensure equal access to educational programs and services.

4. Privacy protections: Schools must protect the privacy of student records, including any information related to a student’s immigration status.

5. Access to financial aid: In New Jersey, undocumented students and DACA recipients are eligible for in-state tuition at public colleges and universities through the NJ Dream Act, which was enacted in 2013.

6. Protection from immigration enforcement actions: According to state law, school officials in New Jersey are prohibited from disclosing any personal information about a student or their family’s immigration status without written consent or a court order.

7. Right to an education regardless of immigration status: The Supreme Court has ruled that all children residing in the United States have a constitutional right to an education, regardless of their immigration status.

8. Legal representation: Under New Jersey law, immigrant students have the right to be represented by legal counsel during any court proceedings related to their immigration status.

9. Rights under federal law: DACA recipients also have the same rights as other students under federal laws such as the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Title IX.

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


Yes, New Jersey’s legislation allows for access to higher education for undocumented students graduating from K-12 institutions. In 2013, the state passed the Tuition Equality Act, which grants in-state tuition rates to eligible undocumented students who have attended a New Jersey high school for at least three years and graduated. This act also allows these students to apply for state financial aid and scholarships. Additionally, in 2018, the state passed the DREAM Act, providing eligibility for financial aid and institutional aid to certain undocumented students who meet certain criteria (such as attending and graduating from a New Jersey high school). These legislative efforts aim to provide equal educational opportunities for all students regardless of their immigration status.

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


Yes, the Supreme Court ruled in Plyler v. Doe (1982) that all children, regardless of their immigration status, have a right to a public education. This means that states cannot create laws or policies to specifically exclude undocumented students from attending K-12 schools. However, there may be certain restrictions and requirements regarding residency and proof of residence that could affect enrollment in some states. It is important to check with your state’s education department for specific laws and policies regarding K-12 enrollment for undocumented students.

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


There are several ways in which New Jersey’s legislation addresses the unique needs and challenges of undocumented students in the K-12 education system:

1. Equal Access to Education: Under New Jersey law, all children, regardless of immigration status, have a right to attend public schools. This means that undocumented students cannot be denied admission or enrollment in K-12 schools.

2. In-State Tuition for Undocumented Students: In 2013, New Jersey passed the “New Jersey Dream Act,” which allows undocumented students who meet certain eligibility criteria to pay in-state tuition at public colleges and universities.

3. Financial Aid for Undocumented Students: Undocumented students are eligible for state financial aid in New Jersey, including the Tuition and Fees Aid Grant (TAG). This grant can cover a portion of the cost of attending college for eligible students.

4. Bilingual Education: The state offers bilingual programs and services for English Language Learners (ELLs), including those who may be undocumented. This helps to ensure that these students have access to quality education and can fully participate in the classroom.

5. Special Immigrant Student Program: New Jersey has a special program designed to improve educational outcomes for immigrant students who are non-English speakers (NESH) or limited English proficient (LEP). These programs provide additional resources and support for these students within the school system.

6. Protection From Discrimination: It is illegal for school districts or personnel to discriminate against undocumented students based on their immigration status. School districts are also required to protect the personal information of their students and not disclose it without consent.

7. DACA Support Programs: Some school districts in New Jersey have implemented programs to support Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipients within their schools, providing resources such as legal assistance and counseling services.

8. Professional Development for Educators: The state provides training and professional development opportunities for educators to better understand the unique needs of undocumented students and how to support them in the classroom.

9. Resources for Undocumented Families: The New Jersey Department of Education provides resources for undocumented families, including information on college access, financial aid, and legal services.

10. Partnerships with Community Organizations: Many New Jersey school districts have partnerships with community organizations that provide resources and support for undocumented students and their families. These partnerships can include mentoring programs, after-school programs, and college readiness workshops.

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


Yes, there are a few scholarship and financial aid opportunities available for undocumented students attending K-12 schools in New Jersey:

1. The New Jersey Dreamers Association Scholarship: This scholarship is open to undocumented students graduating from high school who are attending an accredited college or university in the state of New Jersey. Applicants must have a minimum 2.8 GPA and demonstrate financial need.

2. The Hispanic Scholarship Fund: Undocumented students with a DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) status are eligible to apply for the Hispanic Scholarship Fund’s National College Program, which offers renewable scholarships of up to $5,000.

3. NJ STARS II Program: This program provides tuition benefits to eligible undocumented students who graduated from a New Jersey high school after completing at least two years of coursework at a county college.

4. TheDream.US National Scholarship: Undocumented students with a DACA status can apply for these scholarships that offer up to $33,000 over four years to attend one of their partner colleges in New Jersey.

5. Immigrant Students Achievement Center (ISAC) Scholarship: This scholarship is available to immigrant students living in New York City and the tri-state area, including New Jersey, who have DACA status or are undocumented.

It is also recommended that you check with your school district or local community organizations for additional scholarship opportunities specifically for undocumented students in your area.

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


No, under federal law, schools in the United States are not allowed to ask about or consider a student’s or their parents’ immigration status during enrollment. All children, regardless of their immigration status, have a legal right to attend public K-12 schools in New Jersey.

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


1. Passage of the Dream Act: In December 2013, New Jersey became one of the first states to pass its own version of the federal Dream Act, which allows undocumented students who meet certain criteria to pay in-state tuition at public universities and colleges.

2. Protection for DREAMers: In response to the Trump administration’s decision to rescind DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals), New Jersey created a state program called “Dreamers’ Roadmap” which offers up to $6,000 support for education-related expenses for DREAMers.

3. Non-discrimination policies: The New Jersey Department of Education has issued guidelines prohibiting discrimination and harassment against undocumented students in schools. This includes bullying based on immigration status.

4. Safe Zone Schools Initiative: This program, launched by the ACLU-NJ and other organizations, establishes safe zones in K-12 schools where students and families can receive information about their rights as immigrants without fear of being reported to authorities.

5. Resources for immigrant families: The New Jersey Department of Education provides resources and information for immigrant families on its website, including how to enroll children in school regardless of immigration status.

6. Bilingual education programs: New Jersey has a substantial population of Spanish-speaking immigrants, and many schools offer bilingual education programs to help children from non-English speaking households integrate into their classrooms.

7. Professional development for educators: The state has implemented professional development programs for educators on best practices for working with immigrant students and families, especially those who may have experienced trauma or emotional stress due to their immigration status.

8. Multicultural curriculum: To promote diversity and inclusivity in schools, New Jersey’s curriculum standards incorporate topics related to immigration, cultural diversity, and social justice issues into various subjects.

9. Student-led initiatives: Many schools across the state have student-led initiatives such as clubs or organizations that help create a welcoming environment for all students, including undocumented immigrants.

10. Partnership with community organizations: The New Jersey Department of Education partners with various community organizations to provide support and resources for immigrant families, including legal aid services and mental health support.

11. Access to school meals: Undocumented students in New Jersey have access to free or reduced-price school meals through the National School Lunch Program and the School Breakfast Program, regardless of their immigration status.

12. Trainings for school staff: The state provides trainings for school staff on how to respond respectfully and appropriately to families of diverse backgrounds, including those who are undocumented.

13. Language access: Schools are required to provide language assistance services, such as interpretation and translation services, to help non-English speaking parents and students understand important information and communicate effectively with school staff.

14. State policies protecting student privacy: New Jersey has strict policies regarding the sharing of student data, including immigration status, which helps protect undocumented students from being targeted by authorities.

15. Publicly declared support for immigrant students: Both the Governor of New Jersey and the State Superintendent of Schools have publicly expressed their support for immigrant students and families in the state, emphasizing the importance of creating an inclusive environment in schools.

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


It depends on the specific school and district. Some schools may have training programs in place for teachers and staff on how to support undocumented students under current state legislation, while others may not. It is important for schools to prioritize providing this type of training to ensure that all students, regardless of their immigration status, feel safe and supported in their learning environment. Educators can also seek out resources and trainings provided by organizations such as United We Dream, Educators for Fair Consideration, and the National Education Association.

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


Under New Jersey’s legislation, all students, regardless of their immigration status, are entitled to receive a free public education from kindergarten through grade 12. This includes access to the same educational programs and services as their classmates. The state also prohibits schools from discriminating against or denying enrollment to students based on their immigration status.

Additionally, New Jersey provides additional supports for undocumented students through various initiatives:

1. In-State Tuition: Undocumented students who attended and graduated from a New Jersey high school are eligible for in-state tuition at public colleges and universities.

2. Financial Aid: Undocumented students are eligible for certain forms of state financial aid, including the Tuition Aid Grant (TAG) program and Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF) grants. However, they are not eligible for federal financial aid.

3. Equal Access to Education Guidance: The Department of Education issued guidance in 2017 that ensures equal access to education for all students regardless of immigration status. This guidance includes barring schools from asking about a student’s immigration status during enrollment and requiring schools to provide translation services for non-English speaking parents.

4. Bilingual/ESL Programs: Undocumented students who are English language learners have the right to participate in bilingual and ESL programs provided by their school districts.

5. Safe Spaces: New Jersey has designated schools as “safe spaces” for undocumented students where they can feel welcomed and supported without fear of being reported to immigration authorities.

6. Immigrant Tuition Assistance Program: The state offers scholarships through this program to help low-income undocumented students cover tuition costs at community colleges or vocational schools.

7. Office of New Americans: The state established this office to provide resources and support for immigrant communities, including information on education opportunities for undocumented students.

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


There are several resources available for families of undocumented students to navigate the K-12 education system in New Jersey:

1. The New Jersey Department of Education: The NJDOE provides information and resources for immigrants and undocumented students, including information on enrollment, rights, and support services.

2. Immigrant Rights Clinic: This clinic at Seton Hall Law School provides legal representation to immigrant families facing barriers to education, such as denial of enrollment or services.

3. ESL/Bilingual Education Programs: Many school districts in New Jersey offer English as a Second Language (ESL) or bilingual education programs for non-English speaking students.

4. Education Law Center: This nonprofit organization provides information and legal assistance to low-income families struggling with educational issues, including those related to immigration status.

5. Community-based organizations: There are various community-based organizations across New Jersey that offer assistance and support to undocumented students and their families, such as the Make the Road New Jersey and the American Friends Service Committee Immigrant Rights Program.

6. Parent/Teacher Associations (PTAs): PTAs can provide information on school policies and programs, as well as connect families with other resources in their communities.

7. Know Your Rights trainings: Various organizations offer Know Your Rights trainings specifically tailored for undocumented students and their families, which can provide valuable information on their rights in the educational system.

8. School counselors and social workers: These professionals can provide support and guidance to undocumented students and their families, as well as connect them with additional resources if needed.

9. Legal Aid Services: Some legal aid services in New Jersey may offer free or low-cost legal assistance for immigrant families navigating the educational system.

10. Local libraries: Public libraries often have resources available on immigration laws and policies that can help guide parents through the K-12 education system.

11. College Access Programs: Organizations like TheDream.US and UndocuJersey provide support for undocumented students pursuing higher education.

12. Inquire with your school district: Some school districts may have specific programs or resources for undocumented students and their families. It is important to inquire with your school district to see what services are available.

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


Yes, there have been recent legislative changes and updates to support the rights and needs of undocumented students in K-12 schools in New Jersey.

In 2019, New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy signed the “New Jersey Tuition Equality Act,” which allows undocumented students who meet certain requirements to pay in-state tuition rates at New Jersey colleges and universities instead of higher out-of-state rates.

In addition, New Jersey’s “New Jersey DREAM Act” was signed into law in 2013, allowing undocumented students who meet certain criteria to qualify for state financial aid programs for higher education.

Furthermore, the “DREAMer Resource Center Law” was signed into law in 2017, requiring all public colleges and universities in New Jersey to provide resources specifically designated for undocumented students, such as financial aid information and legal assistance with immigration status.

Also in 2017, Governor Phil Murphy issued an executive order strengthening protections for immigrant communities within the state, including prohibiting state agencies from sharing personal information about individuals’ immigration status with federal authorities unless required by law or a court order.

Additionally, the State Board of Education adopted a policy in 2016 stating that school districts should not request or collect information on immigration status when enrolling a student or during regular school activities. The policy also prohibits school staff from disclosing this information unless required by law or necessary to protect the safety of students or staff.

These legislative changes aim to support and protect the rights of undocumented students in K-12 schools by providing access to higher education opportunities and resources without fear of immigration consequences.

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


New Jersey is considered one of the more supportive states for undocumented students in terms of legislation and policies in K-12 education. According to Education Commission of the States, New Jersey is one of only 20 states that allows undocumented students who meet certain requirements to pay in-state tuition rates at public colleges and universities.

Additionally, New Jersey was one of the first states to adopt a DREAM Act, which provides financial aid for eligible undocumented students. The state also has laws that prohibit schools from discriminating against students based on their immigration status and require them to provide education regardless of their legal status.

Compared to other states, New Jersey ranks among the top 10 in terms of providing support for undocumented students in K-12 education. However, there are still limitations and challenges faced by undocumented students in accessing higher education or obtaining professional licenses in fields such as healthcare or law. Several organizations and advocates continue to work towards further supporting and protecting the rights of undocumented students in New Jersey’s education system.