06/05/2026
In Plyler v. Doe, the Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund (MALDEF) challenged a Texas law that attempted to deny undocumented children access to public schools by charging tuition. The organization successfully argued before the Supreme Court that all children — regardless of immigration status — are protected under the Equal Protection Clause of the 14th Amendment.
As MALDEF reflected on the 40th anniversary of the decision, Plyler v. Doe “changed this nation” by ensuring that millions of children could dream of a better future through education. The impact of the ruling continues to be felt today in classrooms and communities across the country.
We recognize and thank MALDEF for its decades of leadership, advocacy and commitment to protecting educational opportunities for all students.
As efforts to support immigrant children continue, resources remain critical. Last December, the Schubert Center for Child Studies released a comprehensive guide to help professionals support immigrant children and families amid rapidly changing immigration policies. The guide highlights practical resources and organizations, including Ohio Immigrant Alliance Public Page, Us Together, Inc. - Columbus, Community Refugee and Immigration Services (CRIS) and others that help safeguard children's well-being, educational access and family stability.
For more information on the 40th Anniversary of Plyler v. Doe, visit https://tinyurl.com/mrx73mp6; to find the Schubert Center for Child Studies Immigrant Children & Families Resource Guide, visit https://shorturl.at/cFMKS
