RDC Programming
- 1. Refugee Development Center Current Programs Spring 2011 “ Providing the education, orientation and support refugees need to become self-sufficient members of society”
- 2. RDC Programs: Two Main Components
- 3. The Youth Program The Mission of the Youth Program is to improve the academic and functional achievement of each child. This includes attendance, language proficiency, content area subjects, involvement in extra curricular activities and graduation.
- 4. The Youth Program The Youth Program fulfills its mission through several areas of service
- 5. Tutoring Students with assigned homework, special projects and other educational needs are welcome to receive one-on-one help or to work in a small group with a tutor. A key goal of this area is to support English language acquisition and literacy development for English language learners. (ELL) We currently run this program at two sites: Pattengill Middle School Eastern High School
- 6. Youth Orientations & Groups: The Youth Orientations & Groups are intended to lead discussions and reflections to understand the American culture, diversity and school system. Topics may include attendance, hygiene, nutrition, violence, drugs, identity, urban education, appropriate use of technology, study skills, post secondary education, etc. The Youth Groups & Orientations are also designed to provide the students with opportunities to communicate their concerns and progress surrounding their migration and resettlement in America and to further develop their skills.
- 7. Extra Curricular Activities: Through extra curricular activities the youth can get to explore their physical, creative, social, and career interests. They encourage full participation and involvement in school life. Penpal Project Leadership Sports Club GLOBE Camp
- 8. The Adult Program The goal of this component is to help parents understand the American culture and diversity. The RDC also offers several opportunities for the adult students to learn the English language and to adjust to their new community.
- 9. The Adult Program This component provides the following services: Drop-in Service & ESL Classes
- 10. Parent Orientations & Groups: The orientations provide newcomer parents with information they need in order to help their children succeed academically. Topics covered include the importance of school attendance, how to read a report card, etc. The groups provide an opportunity for newcomer parents to share some of their experiences while learning more about American culture and community resources.
- 11. Drop-in Service: It is a drop-in service for adult refugees where we provide: One-on-one assistance with coursework, job searching, life skill training, etc. Use of state-of-the-art driving simulator. Free computer use and internet access.
- 12. ESL Program: VESL: Morning Class for new comers designed to cover literacy skills, basic needs and community resources. Evening ESL Program: Four proficiency levels to teach ESL facilitating natural interaction inside and outside the classroom and departing from a comprehensive practice of the language
- 13. Teacher- Parent Conferences: The RDC facilitates parent-teacher conferences at the LSD. This is an important part of helping parents connect to their children's schools and teachers, and also foster students' success.