Welcoming Newcomers: Dayton's Preschool Program Embraces Refugee Children

In the heart of Dayton, Ohio, a groundbreaking preschool program is paving the way for refugee children to thrive. The Newcomer program, a collaborative effort between the Montgomery County Educational Service Center (MCESC) and various community partners, aims to provide a nurturing and supportive environment for young refugees as they embark on their educational journey in a new country.

Empowering Refugee Children Through Early Intervention

Addressing the Unique Needs of High-Need Students

The preschool where the Newcomer program will be housed already serves a diverse population of high-needs students, many of whom have disabilities or are deaf. This specialized setting ensures that the staff is trained to work with children who require additional support. The school's commitment to inclusivity means that no student is ever turned away, creating a safe and welcoming environment for all.

Securing Funding for the Newcomer Program

The MCESC has secured a significant funding source for the Newcomer program, combining several grants totaling approximately $700,000 from the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS). This substantial investment underscores the community's dedication to supporting refugee families and providing them with the resources they need to thrive.

Addressing the Influx of Non-English Speaking Students

The Dayton region has seen an influx of students who do not speak English as their primary language, leading to an increased demand for English as a Second Language (ESL) teachers. To address this need, a partner program at the International Learning Center works closely with older children who are still learning English, particularly in more rural districts that may have fewer resources available.

The Importance of Early Intervention

Research has shown that early intervention can have a significant impact on the academic and social-emotional development of children, particularly those from low-income backgrounds. Studies have found that preschool attendance can help close achievement gaps and lead to higher high school graduation rates. The Newcomer program aims to capitalize on this critical window of opportunity, recognizing that 90% of a child's brain development occurs by the age of 5.

Embracing Diversity and Fostering Resilience

The Newcomer program is open to families with refugee status in the Dayton region, including those in Montgomery, Miami, Greene, Warren, and Clark counties. These families come from diverse backgrounds, with some arriving from Ukraine, Arab countries, and various African nations. The program's staff understands the unique challenges these children and their families face, and they are committed to creating a safe and nurturing environment that celebrates their cultural heritage and helps them develop the skills necessary to thrive in their new community.

Overcoming Challenges and Building Connections

The Newcomer program has yet to enroll any students, and the staff is actively working to spread the word and connect with families. Longtime Trotwood preschool teacher Julie Emmons, who will be the Newcomer classroom teacher, has been posting flyers around Kettering in the hopes of reaching interested families. The MCESC is also collaborating with Catholic Social Services, the Dayton Metro Library, and Preschool Promise to ensure that the program reaches the families who need it most.Emmons and her assistant teacher, Sherri Bolden, plan to bring parents into the classroom to help ease the transition and build strong connections between the school and the families. They understand that it may be an adjustment for parents to have their children attend school for six hours a day, and they are committed to being flexible and learning alongside the families they serve.

Creating a Safe Haven and Fostering Growth

The Newcomer program is designed to be a safe haven for refugee children, where they can feel secure and supported as they navigate their new surroundings. The classrooms already have a practice of allowing students to bring in pictures of their loved ones, which can provide comfort and a sense of familiarity when they feel overwhelmed.Both Emmons and MCESC's Superintendent, Kimberly Warner, acknowledge that the program will require a significant amount of flexibility and learning as they move forward. However, they are excited about the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of these children and their families."It's growth for me as an educator," Emmons said. "They'll be here and what we can do for them is be that safety net for them."The Newcomer program represents a powerful commitment to supporting refugee families and ensuring that their children have the resources and support they need to thrive in their new community. As the program continues to evolve and grow, it serves as a shining example of how early intervention and a welcoming, inclusive environment can make a lasting difference in the lives of vulnerable children.