20 Jun 2006
Program Provides Support to DISD Migrant Students, Ages 3 – 21
DALLAS–As the majority of students are taking a break from school, some DISD students are enjoying summer classes and summer enrichment programs. Some of them even receive the lessons in their own house.
For the past 10 years, Aracely Maldonado has enrolled her three children, ages five through 17, in the district's Migrant Program.
"The program keeps my children occupied in something productive and helps them review the academic material learned during the school year," said Maldonado.
Students like the Maldonado children receive academic lessons from instructional specialists and teacher assistants about twice a week at home. The lessons cover materials such as mathematics, grammar, reading and writing, which keep the students updated with their academics and gets them ready for next school year.
"The program provides the students with school supplies and tools that will help them succeed in class and in their studies," said Sylvana Alonzo, program coordinator.
Families receive services in seven areas, including early childhood education and graduation enhancement. "The program's ultimate goal is to make sure that the migrant students graduate and then continue on to college," said Alonzo. Secondary students receive guidance with college admission and obtain information on how to access financial assistance resources. The program also provides supplementary support with the Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills (TAKS).
To be eligible for the program, students, ages 3 through 21, must reside in Dallas and the child must travel outside of Dallas with a parent, guardian or by themselves to obtain agricultural work. The work must take place within the preceding 36 months.
The Maldonado family travels to Canton, TX every summer to work in various agricultural jobs, including planting trees and feeding livestock.
"I love for my children to do some work at the ranch because not only do they learn about their culture, but they also learn to value more the things that they have when they earn them," said Maldonado.
Currently, there are about 250 families enrolled in the program. Some families lose their eligibility as they find permanent work and decide not to migrate again. Others re-qualify as they continue in the migrant stream.
The Maldonado family has two other children who graduated from Yvonne A. Ewell Townview Center, who also participated in the Migrant Program. One is currently enrolled in college, the other is a certified nurse.
For more information about the Migrant Program, call (972) 749-2323.