At Center for Schools and Communities, we are dedicated to empowering educators with the resources they need to support refugee students in their academic journey. Due to increases in forcibly displaced peoples globally, it is essential that educators and other refugee-serving practitioners engage in best practices in serving refugee students and families.
A refugee is someone who has been forced to flee their home country due to war, violence, persecution, or natural disaster. If they are resettled in the U.S., they may arrive with limited access to resources and disrupted educational backgrounds. Refugee students often face significant challenges—language barriers, discrimination, disrupted education, and trauma from displacement—that can impact their experiences in the classroom.
Together, with the right tools, strategies, and support, we can help create inclusive school and community environments where these students not only adapt but thrive. When we invest in these students’ success, we’re helping to build a more inclusive and compassionate society for everyone. Together, we can ensure that every child, regardless of their background, has the chance to reach their full potential.
Pennsylvania Department of Education, Pennsylvania Department of Human Services, and Center for Schools and Communities are working together to create belonging and promote school success and community support for refugee students and their families.
Learn More About Supporting Refugee Students in Pennsylvania
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What is the RSI Program?
The Refugee School Impact (RSI) Program provides states with funding to support Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR)-eligible refugee youth in their integration and education.
Check out the Pennsylvania Department of Education Refugee Education Program webpage for further program details.
Joseph Eye
Refugee School Impact State Coordinator
Pennsylvania Department of Education
Bureau of School Support
Division of Student Services
Matthew Butensky
Youth Development Project Manager
Center for Schools and Communities
Meghan Dale
Special Projects Managing Coordinator, Refugee Education Program
Center for Schools and Communities
Benjamin Simmons
Youth Development Specialist
Center for Schools and Communities