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RALEIGH – Around 150 people came out in Raleigh to express their opinions on a policy given preliminary approval by the State Board of Community Colleges. Under the proposal, undocumented immigrants could attend community colleges if they meet some strict criteria.

They would need to graduate from a North Carolina high school, pay out of state tuition, and wait in line behind legal residents for class space. But some say these restrictions aren't enough.

“If someone is in our country illegally, they should not be rewarded for this crime by being allowed to enter our colleges,” said Randy, Dry with North Carolina Freedom.

But of all those who came out to the hearing, only six spoke against the proposal. Most say the idea of keeping kids out of school is a bad idea for North Carolina, even if they're in the country illegally.

“Instead of saying, 'No room for Hispanic children and migrant children when it comes to community college,' we should be saying, 'No limits. No limits on their ability to be educated. We will place no limits on their ability to grow educationally, and contribute to the larger society,'” said Rev. William Barber, with the N.C. NAACP.

Supporters say better education means a better future for North Carolina residents.

“And for individuals to compete in today's workforce, they must be armed with appropriate training,” said former UNCW Chancellor James Leutze.

But opponents say laws are laws, and educating someone does not change the law.

“Since it is against federal and state law to hire an illegal alien, educated or not, what's the purpose of giving an illegal alien a college education?” said James Johnson, with N.C. FIRE.

No board members were present for the hearing, but they will be given a transcript as the board works toward finalizing their decision to allow undocumented students at North Carolina community colleges.