Rodríguez v. San Antonio ISD was a terrible ruling.
50 years ago today, the U.S. Supreme Court made schools more separate and more unequal.
The court ruled that education was not a fundamental right. And it said, although Texas’ school funding system was “chaotic and unjust,” it did not violate federal equal protection requirements. The court passed the buck to states to determine if their public schools were fairly funded.
Why do we pause for this anniversary?
Because Rodríguez fanned a fire sparked by students and families demanding better schools!
Because it led to IDRA’s founding in 1973 to ensure equal opportunities for all students.
And because there is so much more to do.
For example, today, in Texas, Georgia and across the nation, politicians seek to demonize, then privatize, public schools through school vouchers.
In 50 years, IDRA’s mission has never wavered. And we will continue to support movements, change laws, shed light on inequities, and work with educators on classroom innovations that dramatically improve students’ lives. IDRA is committed to ensuring every student is in a strong public school that is safe, values their culture and language, and prepares them for college.