#USA #Washington #EdTrust #Immigrant Students #National Newcomer Network

EdTrust Strengthens Its Role in Supporting Immigrant Students

In recent years, the U.S. has seen a significant rise in immigration enforcement activities, directly impacting immigrant students and their families attending public schools. Over 1 million immigrant children and youth are enrolled in elementary and secondary education, yet many face barriers to education due to fear of deportation or detention. Recent studies, including an examination of schools in California, reveal that attendance has dropped by 22% following immigration raids, with younger students particularly affected. This alarming trend is contributing to a decline in academic performance, leading to concerns among educators about the overall educational experience for these vulnerable students.

Acknowledging this urgent situation, EdTrust has recently announced a partnership with the National Newcomer Network, a coalition of over 500 educators, researchers, and advocates dedicated to improving educational opportunities for newly arrived immigrant and refugee students. This coalition aims to address the systemic challenges that immigrant students face within the educational landscape of the U.S.

Alejandra Vázquez Baur, co-founder and director of the National Newcomer Network, joins EdTrust as the new director of immigrant students policy, advocacy, and partnerships. Vázquez Baur emphasizes the potential and aspirations immigrant students bring to schools, and voices the necessity for educational systems to recognize and nurture these strengths rather than allowing fear to dictate their educational journeys. "Immigrant students come with immense potential, and they should be welcomed into educational environments that support their success across all fronts," she states.

This partnership comes at a critical time, considering the growing anti-immigrant rhetoric and the implications it has for public education. EdTrust believes that failing to advocate for immigrant students' education rights not only jeopardizes their opportunities but also undermines the educational rights of all students. The overarching goal is to ensure that public education remains a welcoming space for every child, regardless of their background.

The National Newcomer Network’s activities include:

• - Advocacy: Promoting stronger federal, state, and local policies that provide funding and protect the civil rights of newcomer students.
• - Amplifying Voices: Elevating the stories and aspirations of newcomer students and their families to inform policy and practice.
• - Support for Educators: Providing professional development and resources to help them better serve immigrant student populations.
• - Community Building: Fostering collaboration among educators, researchers, and policymakers across states to share best practices and strategies for improvement.

Denise Forte, president and CEO of EdTrust, reinforces the need for educational institutions to embrace all students, stating, "Every student deserves to feel safe and welcomed at school, regardless of their family's immigration status. We must ensure that our education system honors every individual's potential."

As the National Newcomer Network integrates with EdTrust’s initiatives, it aims to leverage its expertise to broaden the scope of research, shape policies, and enhance advocacy efforts. Furthermore, this collaboration intends to connect immigrant students' narratives with broader educational reforms from early childhood through to college infrastructures.

Vázquez Baur, a recognized authority in policymaking for immigrant education, envisions a future where all students can thrive in schools that understand and celebrate their diverse backgrounds. "With our collective strength, we can turn the challenges of immigrant students and families into powerful, systemic change for the better."

About EdTrust

EdTrust is a national nonprofit organization committed to dismantling the racial and economic barriers inherent in American education. Through advocacy and research, EdTrust works to reshape the education system for the benefit of all students, from preschool to college.

About the National Newcomer Network

The National Newcomer Network is a coalition dedicated to addressing the inequities faced by immigrant and refugee students in K-12 settings. Through advocacy, education, and support, the Network strives to ensure that all newcomer students have a fair chance to succeed and thrive in their educational journeys.