Resources for Educators supporting DREAMers

*This page will be updated as new information / resources become available.

 

Be present and available to observe and listen

There is a lot of fear and anxiety for students amidst the Administration’s deliberations that DACA might end.  Students may be impacted directly or might be concerned about family members or friends. Be present during school transitions. Ask students how they are feeling. Tell your students they can come to you, that they are safe with you, that you will stand up for them! One way to show support is to get familiar with the unique mental health issues facing youth in immigrant communities and learn some of the tips and tools for wellness.

 

 

Stay informed

By staying up to date on the rapidly changing immigration policy landscape impacting DREAMers you will be aware of what your students are bringing into school every day and can be a better informed ally to #DefendDACA. With so much uncertainty accessing quality information and resources is essential. The NEA Office of General Counsel compiled this guidance to lay out what the end of DACA could mean for legal status and employment.

 

 

Connect these current events to your classroom

Engaging our students by accurately teaching about immigration, we offer a space to hold constructive dialogue. Deepen your students’ understanding of the contributions immigrants have and still make and find strategies for serving immigrant students and families. Educators are also developing thematic units where students have the opportunity to share their own stories and experiences.

 

 

Step into the community

Educators bring the unique skills of having a deep connection to their students and are considered trusted voices by the community. Reach out to a local immigrant rights group and see how you can help. It may be by securing some public space like at the local library and hosting a Know Your Rights presentation and sharing resources like this Deportation Defense Card.

 

 

Address acts of racism and hate

Rhetoric and policy out of the Trump Administration appears to be driving an escalation in incidents of hate and bias and bullying based in perceived national origin in our schools.

Before a Crisis Occurs: How can you and other school leaders assess your school’s climate with an eye toward defusing tension, preventing escalation and avoiding problems? Click here

When There’s a Crisis. What are the key points to consider when responding to a crisis that has been triggered by a bias incident at your school? Click here

After the Worst is Over. How can you address long-term planning and capacity building for the future, including development of social emotional skills?  Click here

For more resources on addressing hate and bias.

 

 

Stand united

No matter what happens we will not stop fighting for our immigrant students and communities. Please take a moment and add your voice.

 

  • Bully-Free

    Student bullying occurs once every seven minutes. In schools across America, one in three students report being bullied weekly.

  • English Language Learners

    Over 400 languages are spoken by students who are English Language Learners nationwide . These ELL students bring a rich cultural diversity to our student populations.

  • Immigration

    A pragmatic approach to immigration is critical for our students –the center of our communities. All students should have the opportunity to learn without the fear and distress that result from unfair immigration policies.

  • LGBTQ

    LGTBQ students face unique challenges in our schools. They are more likely to face bullying and harassment leading to poor grades, higher dropout rates and homelessness. Safe and affirming schools are a core element of student success.

  • Voting Rights

    States across the country have passed measures to make it harder for Americans—particularly people of color, the elderly, students, and people with disabilities—to exercise their fundamental right to cast a ballot.

  • Opportunity

    A student’s chances for success should not depend on living in the right zip code, winning a charter lottery, or affording private school. Our schools belong to all of us.

  • Racial Justice

    Our education system while intended to uphold equal opportunity, often also entrenches disparities by its sheer design.

  • Ending the School to Prison Pipeline

    Zero tolerance and other school discipline policies designed to push kids out of the classroom often lead students into the criminal justice system at unprecedented rates. Too many students are lost to our communities this way.