Claremont Graduate University's Allies of Dreamers Certificate Program

• In Event: The Sanctuary Schools Movement: Claiming Safe Spaces for Immigrant Students and Families

Abstract

The first program of its kind nationally, Allies of Dreamers is a graduate-level certificate program that provides the historical context, theoretical framework, and specific knowledge needed by K-12 teachers and administrators, student affairs professionals in higher education, and community leaders to offer mentorship and advocacy for Dreamers and other undocumented students. The Allies of Dreamers program seeks to fill the growing demand for trained individuals who are committed to ensuring undocumented students are protected, fully integrated into K-12 schools, and have the necessary support and preparation to access and succeed in college and effectively transition to graduate school and the workforce. Program participants learn best practices to integrate undocumented students in the classroom, college campuses, and society. In the span of two semesters and eight graduate units of coursework participants develop skills to be informed advocates to help students navigate the educational system and gain comprehensive understanding of law and policy affecting Dreamers in K-12 and higher education. In this presentation, we will discuss the process to build the program's curriculum including a description of all stakeholders involved. We will also discuss initial implementation with an inaugural cohort of ten K-12 and higher education professionals, lessons learned during the first year of implementation, and future directions.

Authors

• William Perez, Claremont University - Claremont Graduate University

• Gloria Itzel Montiel, Claremont Graduate University