Support for Refugee and Immigrant Populations
Various supports exist at WTCS colleges across the state for newcomer populations (refugees, immigrants, asylees, etc.). The WTCS is actively engaged in developing supports for newcomer communities. The WTCS Immigrant and Refugee Support Network is made up of representatives from each college designated to engage with newcomer populations. If you are interested in joining this group or would like to share resources to support newcomer students contact Colleen Larsen or Cristina Parente.
***New Resource from World Education Service ( WES) on Internationally Trained Professionals***
Wisconsin WES Fact Sheet
WTCS College Resources for Newcomer Communities
- Resources Available for Immigrants and Refugees Through the Wisconsin Technical College System
- U.S. Education System Overview
- Newcomers Are Welcome at NWTC
- Western Technical College’s Libguide for Newcomers
- Gateway Technical College Language Access Plan
- Gateway Technical College Newcomer, Immigrants, Refugees, & International Ed LibGuide
- WTCS Refugee and Immigrant Support FAQs.docx
Student Voices
This spring, at Chippewa Technical College, English language learners wrote a book of personal narratives! The title is “Voices of the Valley: Immigrant Stories from Students of Chippewa Valley Technical College.” It was written by students, lightly edited by faculty, and designed by CVTC graphic design students. There is a collection of 57 stories ranging from Beginners-Advanced from various countries. You can access the resource below.
- “Voices of the Valley” website: https://www.cvtc.edu/landing-pages/college/voices-of-the-valley
Other Resources
Funded by the Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR), Switchboard offers a library of learning resources, an online evidence database, a range of self-paced e-learning courses, regular live learning opportunities, and on-demand technical assistance for ORR-funded organizations. Switchboard is implemented by the International Rescue Committee (IRC).
Contact a Representative at a WTCS College
- WTCS Refugee Community Contacts List
- Contact Education Director for English Language Learning, Cristina Parente, for more information on ELL programs at colleges across the state.
State-wide Resources
- Community task forces convene stakeholders working to support refugees in their area. If you’re interested in joining a taskforce in your area contact Tom Targos (tom.targos@wisconsin.gov).
- Refer to the WI Bureau of Refugee Programs website for information pertinent to supporting refugee populations in general at the state level.
- Refer to the Wisconsin Department of Children and Families website for information about contracted partner agencies in Wisconsin.
Immigrant Integration
The Migration Policy Institute defines immigrant integration as “the process of economic mobility and social inclusion for newcomers.” Other definitions describe immigrant integration as “a dynamic, two-way process in which immigrants and the receiving society work together to build secure, vibrant, and cohesive communities.”
Why Does It Matter in Adult Education?
Many immigrant seek to advance their English proficiency, educational attainment, digital literacy and workforce skills to better support their families. IELCE programs often provide services in each of the Pillars of Immigrant Integration and Inclusion but not all. Community partnerships are key.
Immigrant Integration and Serving Students in Adult Education
Expanding Immigrant Integration in Adult Education
- Enhancing Access for Refugees and New Americans- website
- Leaving Money on the Table: The Persistence of Brain Waste among College-Education Immigrants- article
- Advising Students with Foreign Degrees or Credentials- infographic
- Enhancing Access for Refugees and New Americans Spotlights