STATEMENT FROM EDUCATION LAW CENTER ON THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF SAN ANTONIO V. RODRIGUEZ

Today is the 50th anniversary of the U.S. Supreme Court opinion, San Antonio v. Rodriguez. In 1973, by a 5-4 margin, the Court held that there is no fundamental right to a public education under the U.S. Constitution. The Rodriguez decision greatly diminished the role of federal courts in deciding cases involving extreme disparities in school funding and resources due to differences in local wealth or taxation.

Education Law Center disagrees with the Rodriguez decision. We continue to believe that the federal government, courts, and laws play an important role in fostering educational equity and excellence in the states.

Because of Rodriguez, however, it has been more important than ever that judges, legislators, and advocates at the state level fulfill their obligation to ensure a strong and equitable system of public schools in every community. Holding states accountable for this has been the longstanding mission of ELC, which, like the Rodriguez decision, also turns 50 this year.

We’ll continue to fight for high-quality public schools and equitable educational opportunity for all students, state by state.

Press Contact:

Sharon Krengel
Director of Policy, Strategic Partnerships and Communications
skrengel@edlawcenter.org
973-624-1815, x 240

Press Contact:
Sharon Krengel
Director of Policy, Strategic Partnerships and Communications
skrengel@edlawcenter.org
973-624-1815, x240