Pirat
Savettanan, senior at Chaminade High School
New Americans Learn About Education Options
by Scanews staff
The Educational Opportunity Fair for New Americans was held on Saturday, November 10 from 10:00 ?12:30 PM. at the International Institute, 3654 S. Grand Blvd. The annual event helps immigrants and refugees learn about educational options in metropolitan St. Louis for themselves and their children.
The fair featured representatives from more than 30 public, private and parochial institutions, including primary, secondary, and higher education as well as vocational programs. The fair also provided information about the American education system, financial aid and accreditation. International Institute also provided language interpreters and translated materials.
"Taking choices about education can be challenging for
anyone," said Anna Crosslin, Institute President.
It is especially confusing for new Americans who have limited English skills or who do not understand the American education system with its many public and private
options.
The fair offered educational institutions a chance to learn more about St.
Louis' growing ethnic communities and their educational needs and to explore potential collaborations with the Institute and other schools.
Hundreds parents with their school-aged children toured the Fair and learn about school options. There is no charge for participation.
"The success of last year's Educational Opportunity Fair made all of us realize how valuable the fair
is," said Anita Barker, the Institute Director of Education.
New Americans have been unaware of school options, and at the same
time, three are very few ways for schools to reach this limited English speaking audience with their
messages.
Founded more than 80 years ago, the International Institute is the central clearinghouse for information about the services for St. Louis new Americans. Annually, more than 8,000 refugees and immigrants from 60 countries learn English, get jobs, and receive counseling at the Institute. The agency also produces the popular International Folkfest, held each October at Queeny Park. |
