Grant Proposal - Comprehensive School Health Services for Migrant Children
Migrant children will benefit from the following Instructional strategies:
- Development of Small Groups – Students will be assigned to work in small groups twice a week. These groups will give them a chance to share their ideas and feelings about class lessons and activities. The curriculum will utilize pictures in the form of flash cards and other printable materials; this will assist with overcoming language barriers. English as a Second Language (ESL) Classes – English language classes will be available to all students that need assistance. These classes will improve the student’s comprehension skills. Written materials in multiple languages will also be available to the students.
- Physical Education (P.E) Requirement –A PE teacher will be hired to develop a fitness program, which will include soccer during recess or after school to condition the children for the summer soccer team. PE is a great way for children to burn calories and have fun.
In addition to the Instructional Strategies above, a Sustainable Plan for Alyssa will include:
Health Education: Alyssa will be taught about the food pyramid and how to eat healthy. A health promotion program will be set up to help her understand how foods can help the brain work more functionally and how healthy eating is best for the body. Classes on proper nutrition, safe-sex, and the detrimental effects of bullying will also be provided.
Physical Education: A part of the grant will be used to hire a PE teacher to assist with fitness and sports activities. In addition the P.E. teacher will assist the children with soccer. This will help Alyssa and the other children become more active by getting their bodies moving, burning calories, and providing fun. The services will be provided during recess and/or after school.
Health services: An on-site clinic with certified bilingual staff will be able to provide sports physicals for migrant families. Alyssa and her friends will get the physicals they need in order to participate soccer. This provider will have knowledge on multicultural services and children with English Language barriers.
Nutrition services: A bilingual, registered dietitian who specializes in migrant families will be hired to provide services. The program in coordination with the afterschool program will provide healthy snacks for Alyssa and the other students. Since Alyssa has poor eating habits at home, the nutrition services will be essential in providing healthy snacks that Alyssa can take home.
Counseling, psychological, and social services: A bilingual psychologist would be exemplary. The psychologist will have good background information on migrant families, and he/she will be available to provide a variety of services for these children. The psychologist would address the social, mental, and emotional support needed when adjusting to a foreign country.
Healthy and safe school environment: Having an inspector routinely come out and check the building for proper codes and sanitation will be a requirement of the grant. Implementation of code inspections would help to maintain a safe school environment. This grant will ensure that the school buildings remain sanitary and safe, because unsanitary conditions will not be allowed.
Family and Community Involvement: A meeting will be held with teachers and parents to discuss finances and family involvement. The financial obligations will include costs related to the soccer team, e.g. fees, uniform, and transportation, etc. We will also develop a plan where a teacher can be at every game throughout the year. The goal is to support Alyssa so she will see that she has someone in the stands cheering for her, even if it is not her parent.
