Refugee School Impact Program

Children living in refugee camps and war-torn countries have limited access to education. Refugees arrive in the country often years behind the educational standards considered average. It is important to supplement their education to ensure success in the classroom and adapting to their new home. 

The Refugee School Impact (RSI) program of Catholic Charities offers activities that lead to the effective integration and education of refugee children. The program’s central goals are to ensure that eligible children are prepared to succeed in formal schooling, promote access to child care, strengthen academic performance, and aid the social adjustment of newly arriving refugee youth and their families.

Students between the ages of less than 1 and 18 who attend public school participate in activities that include: 

  • English as a Second Language instruction 
  • After-school tutorials 
  • Programs that encourage high school completion and full participation in school activities 
  • After-school and summer clubs and activities 
  • Parental involvement programs 
  • Bilingual/bicultural counselors 
  • Interpreter services

AFTER-SCHOOL PROGRAM

Catholic Charities provides an after-school program throughout the school year, catering to all age groups. This program is designed to support students in various ways, including assistance with homework completion, tutoring sessions, reading support, and activities to reinforce English language skills. While the specific themes covered in the after-school program may vary, they generally encompass subjects related to art, culture, sports, health, safety, nutrition, and college and career readiness for high school students. This comprehensive approach ensures that students receive a well-rounded educational experience and the necessary personal and academic development tools.

SUMMER PROGRAMS

In the summer, Catholic Charities extends its offerings to include camps for elementary, middle, and high school students and specialized programs addressing college and employment readiness. This comprehensive summer initiative aims to further enrich students’ experiences and equip them with the necessary academic and personal development skills.