Landmark Court Rulings Regarding ELLs Research Guide

Group Members:_Hannah Julius, Morgan Brown, Micaela Salgado, Ruth Lopez, Riley
Benjamin, Sophie McKenny

Plyler v. Doe
Who is the defendant in this case? Doe
Who is the plaintiff in this case? Plyler
What claims are being made by the plaintiff?
A revision to the Texas education laws in 1975 allowed the state to withhold from local
school districts state funds for educating children of illegal aliens. Plaintiff was claiming
that this violates the Equal Protection Clause of the 14th Amendment.
Where did this case originate? Elmwood Park, Illinois
In what year did this case originate? 1981
In what year was this case decided by the Supreme Court? 1982
What was the majority opinion of the Supreme Court (winning side)?
By a 5–4 vote, the Court concluded that the Texas legislation violated the Equal
Protection Clause. The Court explained that "education has a fundamental role in
maintaining the fabric of our society" and "provides the basic tools by which individuals
might lead economically productive lives to the benefit of us all."

Why is this case considered a “Landmark”? How did it affect the education of ELLs?
Plyler vs. Doe is a landmark case because it guarantees education for children of illegal
immigrants. This secures more educational security for ELLs as it is likely that children of
immigrants will fall into the ELL category.