A group of Hispanic students watched as Gov. Mike Leavitt signed a bill that would allow children of undocumented students residency tuition status at state colleges and universities, Friday.
More than 25 students from Park City High School filled a room in the Cowles Building for the ceremonial signing.
For Silvia Salguero, Leavitt’s actions were life changing.
She graduated from Park City High School two years ago and has been working as a housemaid since then. At the time of graduation, her grades and test scores were high enough for her to get into any state college or university, but she couldn’t afford it.
As a child of undocumented immigrants, Salguero would have been forced to pay out of-state tuition, which is about three times in-state tuition. The bill signed by Leavitt could change that, allowing students who attended and graduated from a state high school residency status.
“But thanks to this bill, now I have a chance to get a college education,” Salguero said.
Park City High School teacher, Gerri Maak has taught many students, including Salguero, who could have benefitted from such legislation. Her desire to see these students gain college educations pushed her to persuade Rep. David Ure, R Kamas, to write and sponsor the bill to change this. Ure did, and in March the House and Senate agreed to House Bill 144.
But the bill won’t go into effect until the U.S. Congress passes similar legislation. For now, Leavitt said the state is lobbying representatives to approve such changes.
“This bill just opened the door for me,” said Javiar Leon, a Park City student. “It allows me to fulfill my dream and make my parents proud by gaining an education.”
Pointing to the students in the room, U President Bernie Machen said, “This is the future of the economy of this state. These students want to come to college, and we are waiting for them.”
Leavitt said the growth of ethnic minorities in Utah has rocketed from 8 percent in 1993 to 15 percent today. By 2010, that number is expected to surpass 20 percent, Leavitt said.
“These are great students, and they represent the growing workforce in the state. The want to make a difference but they need an education. Now they have a chance,” Leavitt said.