Announcement
Heather, IRC in New Jersey's Educational & Learning Youth Coordinator in Elizabeth, recently received some great news from a client she had been assisting with school registration. Mohamad* had never been able to speak in his native language and communicates largely with his mother through sounds and gestures. Born in Sudan but raised in Egypt, Mohamad suffered continuous abuse from his teachers throughout his primary education as a result of his disabilities. In sixth grade, his parents removed him from school because of ongoing harassment. Heather was determined to connect Mohamad to the resources he needed and deserved at his school in New Jersey.
Historically, when school-aged refugees arrive to the US, it can be difficult to secure necessary services to help them thrive in the classroom. When students have learning disabilities, Heather advocates for an individualized education plan (IEP), a standard educational support which indicates specific goals and expectations for their personal learning process. IEPs are agreed upon by both caregivers and school districts. Heather arranged an eligibility meeting with the district when Mohamad arrived to address his psychosocial, speech, language, and academic needs. Thanks to Heather’s hard work, supported by IRC and partners in the school district, Mohamad was transferred to one of the best public schools in Elizabeth.
Heather working hard to ensure refugees, asylees, asylum-seeking and immigrant youth clients are supported in their transition to life in New Jersey.
Photo: Julie Scesney/IRC.
Currently, Mohamad learns in a small class setting and receives speech therapy and occupational therapy. He receives door-to-door transportation to ensure he gets to school safely. His teachers love him, and the principal even reached out to let Heather and IRC know how happy they are to have Mohamad at the school. Heather and his father met with one of Mohamad’s teachers, who informed them that Mohamad is learning letters and numbers for the first time, and is given homework at an achievable level. Mohamad’s father says that he is “more open” now and is “playing and joking with his brothers.”
Mohamad now has an entire child study team and case manager dedicated to ensuring he learns to grow, speak, read, and write in English. Most importantly, Mohamad reports that for the first time in his life, he is excited to attend school and learn. This is a remarkable development for him, his family, and IRC’s hardworking staff. All are excited to support Mohamad as he continues to grow and flourish here in New Jersey.
To support Heather’s essential work and the IRC’s Youth Program in Elizabeth, please click here.
*Name of client changed to protect privacy