As xenophobic rhetoric and policies increasingly target immigrant communities, it is more important than ever for educators and students to understand the legal foundations protecting every child’s right to an education.
Released in October 2025, Jessica Lander’s Making Americans: Plyler v. Doe and Opening the School Door explores the landmark 1982 Supreme Court decision that affirmed access to public education for all children, regardless of immigration status. Adapted from the 2024 George Orwell Award–winning book Making Americans (which was featured in an NEHS webinar), this short e-book combines history, current context, and powerful commentary from Congressman Jamie Raskin and Gaby Pacheco, president of TheDream.US and a former Plyler student.
The e-book is designed for classrooms, chapters, and staff communities. A free educator guide, created in partnership with Re-Imagining Migration, includes discussion questions and a professional development framework to support meaningful dialogue and action. Jessica is also available to join virtual conversations with educators and students. At a time when immigrant-origin students and families face growing uncertainty, understanding the story of Plyler v. Doe helps educators and young leaders affirm a simple but vital truth: every child belongs in school.
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