NYSED Commissioner Betty Rosa, along with Attorney General Letitia James, issues a “Know Your Rights” directive to ensure free public education for all students in New York, regardless of nationality or immigration status.
Photo courtesy of the NYSED
Just as the new school year is starting, Attorney General Letitia James and NY State Education Department (NYSED) Commissioner Betty Rosa have issued a “Know Your Rights” directive, reaffirming every child aged between 5 and 21 is entitled to free public education in New York, irrespective of their nationality or immigration status.
This advisory delineates the obligations of schools in enrolling new students and cautions against the establishment of policies or prerequisites that could inhibit noncitizens, undocumented students and families lacking a lease from school registration.
“The law is unequivocal: all New Yorkers are guaranteed a free public education, and every resident of our state is a New Yorker,” James said. “As the school year is about to commence, it is imperative that all students are promptly and effortlessly welcomed to attend. I am resolute in defending our youth’s right to education, and I urge any New Yorker denied this fundamental right to reach out to my office.”
Commissioner Rosa added, “All school and district leaders must persistently fulfill their obligation to accept and offer educational support services to these students and their families. Collaborating with Attorney General James and our school and district leaders, we will persist in implementing tangible measures to facilitate a seamless transition for these students. We must cultivate a safe and inviting environment where all students feel a sense of belonging and have the necessary support to thrive.”
New York law mandates that students between the ages of 5 and 21 are entitled to free public school education. Any policies hindering students from enrolling in their local public school infringe upon this…
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