Oklahoma Advances Proposal to Require Proof of Citizenship for Public School Enrollment

The measure, approved by the state education board, faces legal challenges and awaits final approval from the governor and legislature.

The Oklahoma State Board of Education has approved a proposal requiring families to provide proof of U.S. citizenship when enrolling children in public schools.
The proposed rule also mandates schools to report the number of undocumented students to the state education department.
Critics argue that the measure violates the 1982 Supreme Court ruling in Plyler v. Doe, which guarantees all children access to public education regardless of immigration status.
State Superintendent Ryan Walters defends the proposal as a means to gather data on undocumented students and manage educational resources effectively.
Advocacy groups and legal experts warn the rule could discourage undocumented families from enrolling their children and predict it will face significant legal hurdles.