Student Rights

Constitutional rights aren't only for adults, and they do not end when you pass through a schoolhouse door.

Decorate collage with student and pencils.

The ACLU of North Carolina works to protect young people and students from discrimination, injustice, and violence, and to ensure that their constitutional rights -- including their rights to free speech, religious liberty, due process, equal protection, and freedom from unreasonable searches and seizures -- are respected.

We have worked with students and families across the state to challenge book bans and discriminatory dress codes, protect and advance the rights of immigrant, LGBTQ and gender nonconforming youth, dismantle the school-to-prison pipeline that disproportionately disciplines and sends children of color or with disabilities into the criminal justice system, and more.

Together we can build a North Carolina that supports all young people, protects the next generation, and promotes the values of liberty and justice for all.

The Latest


Press Release
Placeholder image

NC House Overrides Gov. Stein’s Veto on Anti-Diversity Bills

Know Your Rights
Decorate collage with student and pencils.

Interacting with Police in Schools

Know Your Rights
Placeholder image

Know Your Rights as a Student Protester (K-12)

Press Release
Placeholder image

ACLU of North Carolina Urges UNC Board of Governors to Protect Academic Freedom

Issue Areas: Free Speech, Student Rights

Cases, Campaigns & Legislation


Legislation
May 6, 2026

HB 1061: Plyler Educational Protections Act

The Plyler Educational Protections Act would establish statewide protections for public education and privacy for all students, regardless of immigration status.
Position: Support
Legislation
May 6, 2026

HB 1043: Anti-LGBTQ Book Ban

This bill adds several amendments to the so-called “Parents Bill of Rights,” an anti-LGBTQ school censorship bill.
Position: Oppose
Legislation
May 12, 2025

HB 636: Banning Books in Schools

This bill severely restricts the books that can be added to public school libraries and allows parents and county residents to sue public schools that violate these book-banning bills.
Status: Passed House
Position: Oppose
Legislation
Jun 25, 2026

SB 558: Eliminating "DEI" in Public Higher Education

This bill prohibits public institutions of higher education, such as the UNC university system and local community colleges, from promoting certain concepts associated with diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Status: Became Law Over Governor's Veto
Position: Oppose