Largely ignored in the immigration debate are the 1 million children who make up approximately 10 percent of the undocumented immigrant population. Many of these children were brought to the United States at a young age, have been educated in American schools, and have grown up speaking English and embracing American culture. Often these children—who include class valedictorians, honor students, star athletes and prom queens—are completely unaware of their immigration status. An estimated 65,000 undocumented youth graduate from American high schools every year. All are students who, if given the chance, could become our much-needed teachers, nurses, and community leaders. Instead, these students are left unable to fulfill their dreams of attending college or pursuing the career of their choice.
