GREENSBORO -- It receives dozens of new students every week, and with students from 45 different countries, the Newcomers School in Greensboro aims to help immigrants and refugees acclimate to America.
“I can’t erase what has happened in the past, but I can give them hope," said Candice Bailey, principal. "If they work hard, they can improve their circumstances and outcomes for them and their families."
On Monday, a group of international refugee experts from Europe stopped by the school for a tour. The group is on a trip to learn more about how the U.S. helps refugees.
“We have recently adopted something similar, but on a much more short-term basis," said Dr. Maria Pisani, University of Malta. "I was fascinated to see how so many multilingual students come together like this, learn at their own pace with a dedicated staff.”
They toured the school and spoke with educators about how the curriculum is designed to help students adapt to the country before attending a traditional school.
“Here in the U.S., we’re dealing with a small number of refugees compared to what they’re dealing with in Europe," said Minnie Battle Mayes, U.S. State Department international visitor liaison. "Being on the front line with tens of thousands of refugees on a daily basis, they’re in a crisis trying to resettle so quickly.”
Educators say it's critical to offer wraparound services and support students emotionally, socially and psychologically, with partnerships throughout the community that can help children overcome various issues, like PTSD.
"The academics are important, yes, but we also know if you're not in a good place mentally, you're not going to be able to focus on things, like reading," said Bailey. "You're not thinking about those things, you're thinking about all the things you've lost or experienced."
The visitors are also members of the International Visitor Leadership program of the U.S. Department of State.
Their next stop is Minneapolis, Minnesota.