Students’ Rights

Protecting the rights of students is key because most people’s first major encounter with the government is in the school setting. For students to appreciate the importance of civil liberties, it is critical that their rights be protected in school.

white and orange graphic of young students writing in notebooks.

Explore our work to protect students’ rights through litigation, advocacy, and education.

Know Your Student Rights

The Latest


Know Your Rights
students with backpacks walking away from camera.

KNOW YOUR RIGHTS: Public University Students in Rhode Island

Know your rights as a public university student in Rhode Island.
Resource
Blue voting bubble graphic with "2026 RI Midterm Candidate Survey Civil Liberties Edition" on a cream colored background. ACLU of RI logo in lower right corner.

RI Midterm Candidate Questions: Civil Liberties Edition

We sent a survey of civil liberties questions to all the candidates running for statewide office (except for Treasurer) that will be on the ballot in the 2026 Rhode Island midterm elections, as well as the Providence mayoral candidates.
Resource
Blue voting bubble graphic with "2026 RI Midterm Candidate Survey Civil Liberties Edition" on a cream colored background. ACLU of RI logo in lower right corner.

RI Midterm Primary Candidate Questions: Civil Liberties Edition

We sent a survey of civil liberties questions to all the candidates running for statewide office (except for Treasurer) that will be on the ballot in the 2026 Rhode Island midterm elections, as well as the Providence mayoral candidates.
News & Commentary
Dark green and light yellow graphic including photo of the backs of two high school students wearing backpacks.

ACLU of RI Gains Settlement for Pawtucket Student Unlawfully Handcuffed, Arrested by School Resource Officer in 2019

“At the age of thirteen, our client stood up for her own right and the right of other school children to receive an education instead of being criminalized by the public school system.”

Cases, Campaigns & Legislation


Legislation
May 31, 2026

Creating a Bilingual Education Support Fund (H 7389, S 2555A)

Status: Passed Senate, Held for Further Study in House
Position: Support
Legislation
May 31, 2026

Expanding Civics Education Funding (H 7581)

Status: Held for Further Study
Position: Support
Legislation
May 31, 2026

Increasing Amount of Social Workers in Schools (H 7455, H 7456

Status: Held for Further Study
Position: Support
Legislation
Apr 20, 2026

Academic Data Collection for Students in Foster Care (H 8362)

Status: Passed House
Position: Support and Amend