Federal Education Resources Directory

Preschool (Ages 2–5)

1. Head Start Program
   • Link: www.acf.hhs.gov/ohs

   • Description: Administered by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Head Start provides free early childhood education, health, and nutrition services for low-income families, including immigrants and refugees. It serves children from birth to age 5, supporting multilingual learners and children with disabilities. Use the “Head Start Locator” tool to find programs near you. 

2. U.S. Department of Education: Early Learning
   • Link: www.ed.gov/early-learning

   • Description: This federal resource provides information on early childhood education, including guidance on using Title I and Title III funds to support preschool programs for English learners and children with disabilities. It offers toolkits and webinars for families to ensure equitable access to high-quality preschool. 

3. Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP)
   • Link: www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/osers/osep
   • Description: OSEP supports early intervention and preschool services for children with disabilities under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) Part B and Part C. It provides resources for families to access evaluations and services for children from birth to age 5.

K-12 Education (Ages 5–18)

1. U.S. Department of Education: Newcomer Toolkit
   • Link: www.ed.gov/about/offices/list/oela/newcomers-toolkit

   • Description: This toolkit offers resources for newcomer students and families, detailing legal rights to public education, strategies for supporting English language proficiency, and tips for cultural integration. It’s designed for educators but includes valuable information for parents.

2. Educational Services for Immigrant Children and Those Recently Arrived
   • Link: www2.ed.gov/policy/rights/guid/unaccompanied-children.html

   • Description: This U.S. Department of Education resource provides essential information for newly arrived immigrant children, including unaccompanied minors, on enrolling in K-12 schools and accessing support services like English language programs.

3. National Center for Homeless Education
   • Link: nche.ed.gov

   • Description: This federal resource supports families experiencing homelessness, including newcomers, by ensuring children’s rights to enroll in school and access services like transportation and school supplies. It includes guides for parents and educators.

4. Migrant Students Records Exchange Initiative (MSIX)
   • Link: www2.ed.gov/admins/lead/account/summary.html
   • Description: MSIX enables states to share educational and health records for migrant students, ensuring continuity for children who move frequently, including many newcomers. Contact your school district to utilize this system.

Higher Education (College and Beyond)

1. Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
   • Link: studentaid.gov

   • Description: The FAFSA is the gateway to federal grants, loans, and work-study programs for college. It provides multilingual guidance, though undocumented students may face restrictions. Check state-specific aid options for additional support.

2. Resource Guide: Supporting Undocumented Youth
   • Link: www.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/docs/daca-resource-guide.pdf

   • Description: This U.S. Department of Education guide supports undocumented and DACA students in accessing higher education, offering information on financial aid, scholarships, and career preparation.

3. College Assistance Migrant Program (CAMP)
   • Link: www2.ed.gov/programs/camp/index.html

   • Description: CAMP provides academic and financial support to migrant and seasonal farmworkers and their families during their first year of college, helping newcomers transition to higher education.

4. Education USA
   • Link: educationusa.state.gov
   • Description: Run by the U.S. Department of State, EducationUSA offers resources for international students, including newcomers, to navigate U.S. higher education. It provides guidance on applications, visas, and financial aid through advising centers worldwide.

Additional Federal Resources

1. Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR)
   • Link: www.acf.hhs.gov/orr

   • Description: ORR connects refugees and asylees to educational resources, including ESL programs and school enrollment support, to aid integration into American society. It links families to local services.

2. U.S. Department of Education: Resources for Immigrants, Refugees, Asylees, and Other New Americans
   • Link: www2.ed.gov/about/overview/focus/immigration-resources.html

   • Description: This dedicated page provides a centralized hub for immigrant, refugee, and asylee students and families, offering resources on school enrollment, language support, and higher education access.

3. English as a Second Language (ESL) Programs
   • Link: www.usa.gov/learn-english

   • Description: This federal site lists free and low-cost ESL programs for adults and children, helping newcomers improve English proficiency for academic and professional success. 

State Education Agency Contacts

Tips for Newcomers

• Know Your Rights: All children, regardless of immigration status, have a right to free public K-12 education under federal law (Plyler v. Doe). Colleges may have specific policies for undocumented students, so check with institutions directly.
• Contact State Agencies: Use the table above to connect with your state’s education agency for local resources, including ESL programs, special education, and college advising.
• Leverage Federal Programs: Programs like Head Start, Title I, and CAMP are designed to support underserved populations, including newcomers.
• Seek Multilingual Support: Many federal resources offer materials in languages like Spanish, Arabic, and Chinese. Contact agencies for translation assistance if needed.