Supporting Immigrant Students and Families: A Guide for New York State Secondary School Counselors


This guide provides counselors in middle and high schools with foundational knowledge, practical strategies, and actionable resources to support immigrant students and their families.

The guide was developed by CUNY-IIE in partnership with 11 practicing school counselors across New York State. It provides counselors with grounded practices for creating welcoming school environments, navigating legal and policy considerations, supporting students through the college access process, and building meaningful partnerships with families and community organizations.

What's Inside the Guide

  • Working with Immigrant-Origin Students and Families in Schools: Implement strategies for welcoming students, partnering with families

  • Providing Professional Development for Staff: Build practices and language for educators and other school staff members

  • College Access and Postsecondary Guidance: Support students through financial aid, documentation requirements, and campus resources for undocumented and immigrant students

  • Building Community Support Through CBO Partnerships: Develop meaningful collaborations with community-based organizations serving immigrant families

We invite you to explore the guide and consider how it can enrich your practice and support the learning process for schools in New York.


This guide has been reviewed by the New York State Education Department.

 

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