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Webquest |
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Higher Education for Illegal Immigrants in Maryland |
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Introduction |
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Public higher education in Maryland is supplemented by State funds to help ease the cost of education for students and their families. From the State’s perspective, it makes sense to invest in education because it benefits the well-being of the State if the members have higher education. Today, many more jobs are requiring some sort of higher education training, whether at a trade school, community college, or four-year college. But what happens when the student who wants to go to school is not officially a member of the State? Some children are designated “illegal aliens” of their parents entered the US from a foreign country illegally. The State is required to provide K-12 education for these students, but not for higher education. Yet, these students often have lived in Maryland for many years and are an integral part of our community. Senate Bill 591 (2008 Session) would designate students who have record of attending Maryland public schools for at least two years as eligible for in-state tuition. Some feel this is a right; others feel it is a benefit that should only be afforded to children of taxpayers.
Support– Some advocates feel that it is imperative that these students receive in-state tuition rates and financial aid support. Many of these individuals see this designation as a right to these students; others find it beneficial for Maryland as a whole in the long-run. Oppose– Some advocates feel that taxpayer dollars should only be given to taxpayers and their children. Illegal immigrants do not pay income tax to Maryland, and thus they are not buying into the system. They also explain that supporting these individuals only supports “illegal” behavior. They believe our policies should encourage people to follow the rules and punish those who do not. These individuals believe that such students should be required to be residents before they receive in-state tuition. |
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Josh Michael |
