Newsletters

As we transition into the spring season, there’s a wealth of events and professional development opportunities tailored for educators, advocates, and professionals in multilingual education. From local marches to national conventions, there’s something for everyone looking to enhance their skills and engage with their communities. Here’s a roundup of what’s on the horizon:

Welcome to our latest newsletter focusing on mental health within our schools. At Van Buren Intermediate School District, we prioritize the well-being of our students and staff members, recognizing that mental health is just as important as physical health in achieving overall wellness and academic success.

The search for affordable housing can be an overwhelming challenge for many families in the Southwest Michigan area. As a migrant/bilingual teacher, I’ve witnessed firsthand the struggles faced by families forced to move due to housing instability. In response to this pressing issue, we’ve compiled a list of resources and support networks aimed at alleviating the burden of house-hunting and providing assistance to those in crisis situations.

In Lawrence Public Schools, student achievement is celebrated and success stories are cherished. Among the many inspiring tales of triumph, one shines particularly bright—Beth Formeus, a newcomer student hailing from Haiti with a thirst for knowledge and a drive for excellence.

As a parent, you want the best for your child, especially when it comes to their education. You may have heard about the WIDA assessments, but you might not be sure why they’re important or what you can do to support your child through them. With WIDA testing underway in most Michigan schools from February 5th to March 22nd, it’s crucial to understand these assessments and how you can help your son or daughter succeed.

Are you ready to embark on your journey at Western Michigan University (WMU) with confidence and clarity? Look no further than “Mi Realidad” – an empowering opportunity for students and their families to kickstart their WMU experience with essential information and invaluable connections.

In the heart of Bloomingdale Public Schools, there’s a remarkable individual who has been a steadfast presence for 24 years—Hope Gonzalez. Her dedication to the students, families, and the community as a whole makes her a true pillar of Southwest Michigan education.

In a pioneering effort to support migrant families in Southwest Michigan, the Van Buren Intermediate School District (VBISD) Migrant Program has introduced a new initiative targeting preschool children aged 3-5. This unique program brings certified teachers and home/school migrant liaisons directly into the homes of these families, fostering early education and a sense of community.

WMU is hosting an informational session regarding the available discounted ESL endorsement/master’s program. They currently have a grant from USED to support teachers in attaining the ESL endorsement at a reduced cost.

In a world characterized by diverse languages and cultures, language rights advocacy plays a crucial role in empowering communities and ensuring equal access to justice. For immigrant communities in Michigan, organizations such as the Michigan Immigrant Rights Center (MIRC) and Farmworker Legal Services (FLS) stand at the forefront of legal assistance, championing the rights of individuals who often face linguistic and systemic barriers.

To support the educational aspirations of migrant students, the National Association of State Directors of Migrant Education (NASDME) is pleased to announce the availability of the 2024 Albert Lee Wright, Jr. Memorial Migrant Scholarship. This scholarship, named in honor of Albert Lee Wright, Jr., aims to recognize and reward the dedication and resilience of students who have experienced mobility due to their or their families’ participation in the Title I, Part C Migrant Education Program.

Storytelling is a universal human experience that transcends borders, cultures, and languages. It is a powerful tool for connecting with others and sharing unique perspectives. In a multilingual setting, storytelling takes on an even more profound role, weaving together the threads of diverse languages and cultures. In this article, we’ll explore the art of multilingual storytelling, delving into the creation and sharing of personal narratives.