It has been brought to our attention that certain school districts are requiring Social Security Identification for enrollment in K-12 school. It is unlawful to require more than proof of residence (such as a gas or electric bill), immunization forms, & a birth certificate as a condition of enrollment in public schools.  It is not required that a birth certificate be from the United States. The birth certificate is simply a means to determine the age of the student. Oklahoma law allows for other forms such as a baptismal or an affidavit to verify proof of age. No public school may legally require a Social Security card.

School administrators cannot deny admission to a student based on his or her immigration status or require parents or students to disclose their immigrant status or social security numbers. Plyler v. Doe, 457 U.S. 202 (1982)  In addition, if a district chooses to request a social security number, it shall inform the individual that the disclosure is voluntary, provide the statutory or other basis upon which it is seeking the number, and explain what uses will be made of it. 5 U.S.C. §552a

If your child is denied enrollment please contact the ACLU of Oklahoma at (405) 524-8511 or acluok@acluok.org.

If your child is turned away for enrollment please contact the ACLU of Oklahoma.