There are many educational services available for immigrant children enrolled in the U.S. education system. Regardless of the child’s national origin, citizenship or immigration status, they are able to attend public elementary and public secondary schools.
On the other hand, unaccompanied children crossing the border at an HHS (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services) shelter, are able to receive educational services not directly from the public school system.
Immigrant children enrolled within the U.S. public school system have access to the following equitable educational services:
● Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA): children are able to be evaluated for disabilities. If a child falls under the disability criteria in the IDEA, the child is able to receive special education services along with a personal intervention plan.
● English Language Acquisition Programs: children are able to receive additional assistance and instruction through tutoring or engaging in community programs.
● Migrant Education Programs (MEP): Through MEP funds, children who are migratory agricultural workers (or parents are migratory agricultural workers) can receive educational assistance under the MEP if eligibility requirements are met.
For more information about educational services for immigrant children, please visit
https://www2.ed.gov/policy/rights/guid/unaccompanied-children.html