In the Oakland Unified School District (OUSD), the primary goal is to ensure that language differences do not become barriers for students from varied backgrounds.
With a dedicated, multilingual team in the enrollment office, OUSD is able to assist newcomers who speak a range of languages, including Spanish, Vietnamese, Cantonese, Mandarin, Arabic, and Mam— a Mayan language from Guatemala and Mexico.
For those who communicate in less usual languages like Dari and Pashto, partnerships with community organizations help meet their needs.
Commitment to Inclusivity
Kilian Betlach, OUSD’s executive director for enrollment, highlights the district’s role as a sanctuary district and community school.
This commitment translates into real, tangible support for immigrant students rather than mere rhetoric.
This proactive approach stands in stark contrast to recent investigations revealing that many school districts across the U.S. often deny enrollment to older newcomers, overlooking their legal rights.
Some institutions misguidedly direct these students toward adult education or GED programs, citing reasons like inadequate documentation.
In Oakland, however, the enrollment office is focused on streamlining the registration process by removing obstacles, even when foundational documents like transcripts are missing.
For straightforward cases involving students ages 17 and under with some documentation, interactions with the enrollment staff can expedite the process quickly.
However, when more complexities arise—such as for individuals over 18 who lack proof of residency or birth certificates—students are directed to the Refugee and Asylee office for specialized assistance.
Supporting Newcomers
Nate Dunstan, the program manager for refugees and newcomers, emphasizes the office’s vital role in connecting families to local government services.
They aim to facilitate a seamless entry into the school system, ensuring that students find appropriate programs that meet their unique needs.
Take, for example, Marvin Rivas Zavala, who recently arrived from El Salvador.
His journey began in late October, and despite speaking limited English, he was placed in the 10th grade, allowing him time to adjust before pursuing his dream of studying software engineering.
His family felt a sense of relief as they navigated the registration process with the support of the staff, who provided prompt assistance.
Another newcomer, Esmeralda Flores Paredes, fled from El Salvador after enduring time in government detention.
Having completed high school back home, she aims to graduate from an American high school within a year.
Now placed at Rudsdale Continuation High School, she benefits from dedicated programs designed for older students striving to meet their educational goals.
During enrollment meetings, staff also take the opportunity to explore other essential needs, such as public health insurance and housing assistance.
Dunstan points out that while their primary mission is student enrollment, they acknowledge that various situations can complicate this task.
Community Outreach and Support
The current political climate adds emotional strain for many immigrant families who fear separation from their loved ones due to immigration policies.
Despite this anxiety, the enrollment support team remains optimistic, demonstrating their dedication to both the education and well-being of their students.
To further alleviate the transition process, students leave their initial appointments equipped with essential supplies, including backpacks and school materials, thanks to the generosity of local organizations.
Additionally, staff members assist families in finding immunization services and connecting them to community resources for financial support.
To engage potential students proactively, enrollment staff frequently venture into the community.
Collaborations with local nonprofits help ensure that outreach efforts reach families who might otherwise be unaware of their educational opportunities.
OUSD employs a variety of strategies to boost enrollment numbers, from targeted advertising and digital outreach to organizing cultural events aimed at raising awareness and encouraging participation in educational programs.
The district has enhanced its enrollment system to better serve low-income families who rely on mobile devices for internet access.
Conscious of the challenges some students face, the enrollment team actively works to minimize refusals and advocates for those needing extra help to navigate the educational system.
In one notable case, after months of persistent effort, the district successfully enrolled a 20-year-old woman from Guatemala who had no prior high school credits.
Even with substantial budget constraints, OUSD’s dedication to inclusivity remains unwavering.
Betlach reflects on this moral obligation to welcome all community members, emphasizing the need for support regardless of personal circumstances.
Ultimately, this holistic approach aims not only to welcome newcomers but to ensure their successful integration into the educational system, demonstrating a profound commitment to the diverse fabric of the community.
Source: The74million