SCHOOL IN IDAHO:
A Workshop for Refugee Families
School systems vary widely across countries. This workshop helps refugee families learn "how to do school" in a new place. Participants learn what U.S. schools expect from parents and caregivers, how to communicate effectively with teachers, and practical ways to support their children’s learning at home. Designed to strengthen family–school partnerships, this session equips families with tools to navigate the school environment with confidence, and helps educators build stronger relationships with the communities they serve.
Potential Topics Include:
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How can I help my child learn?
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What if my child doesn’t understand and I don’t know how to help them?
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Free tutoring programs
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How can I communicate with teachers / the school?
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How do I ask for an interpreter or translation?
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How to use apps to trade messages with teachers (with translation)
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Using Infinite Campus/Powerschool to look at grades, assignments, etc.
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Parent-teacher conferences
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Who to reach out to with concerns (& how to reach out)
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Preventing & addressing bullying in school
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Why are there so many clubs and activities? Are they important?
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How does attendance work in Idaho?
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What do I do if my child is having trouble making friends? How can I help them?
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What is technical education (i.e., DTEC in Boise Schools)? Is it a good idea for my teen?
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What are the laws around child abuse/spanking/discipline?
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What is expected on the bus? What if my child is unhappy on the bus? (bullying, etc.)
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What is the difference between childcare, preschool, and Head Start? Is it worth the effort to get my child enrolled?
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Cultural barriers to learning:
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How to help my child go to school during Ramadan.
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What to do if my child isn’t eating lunch?
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What to do if the school isn’t respecting that my daughter wears a hijab?
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Facilitators:
Presented by the Neighbors United Education Committee, a coalition of organizations working to support Idahoans with a refugee background in their education and learning. Depending on the topic and organization, we bring in school leaders so that families can build connections with educators.
