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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.

In a heartwarming celebration of community spirit, the Southwest Michigan Migrant Resource Council transformed the Van Buren Intermediate Conference Center into a festive wonderland for its annual Migrant/Multilingual Christmas basket event on Saturday, December 9.

In our globalized world, the ability to navigate multiple languages is a valuable skill that fosters cultural understanding and opens doors to diverse perspectives. For parents raising children in a multilingual household, the journey of nurturing language skills from an early age can be both rewarding and enriching. In this article, we’ll explore practical tips for creating a language-rich home environment that supports multilingual parenting, along with a curated list of resources to enhance the experience.

Practical Tips for Multilingual Parenting:

In recent years, Michigan schools have experienced a rise in the number of students embarking on their English language learning journey. Often referred to as “Newcomers,” these students not only grapple with a new language but also navigate unfamiliar school environments and cultures.

Are you or someone you know in need of support with food, clothing, housing, or mental health resources? We have great news! VBISDResources.com has recently broadened its range of resources with additional links.

In our ever-connected and diverse world, schools are becoming increasingly aware of the importance of effective communication to ensure that all students and their families feel included and supported. Interpretation/Translation is not just something nice-it is the law! Competent interpreters ensure equal access to education for families and students. One key aspect of achieving this inclusivity is through the use of translation and interpretation services.

We are thrilled to share the highlights from the recent Parent Leadership Team (PLT) meeting held on November 9, 2023. This gathering, teleconferenced across the state, brought together representatives from various regions, including Western Michigan Fruit Ridge Regional, Shelby Area, Van Buren ISD, Northwest Education Services, Mid-Michigan Area, and several individual sites.  There were approximately 80-90 families that attended throughout the state.

The Special Populations and Related State & Federal Programs include Foster Care, Section 31a At-Risk, Title I, Part C – Migrant, Title I, Part D – Neglected & Delinquent, Title III – English Learner & Immigrant Education Programs, Title VI, Part A – Indian Education, and McKinney-Vento Homeless   For those of you who may…