WORKING WITH SYRIAN REFUGEES: WHAT TEACHERS AND TEACHER EDUCATORS NEED TO KNOW

The Syrian Refugee Crisis presents many challenges for educators and educational systems. In this session, the presenters will discuss optimal responses to those challenges in terms of both policy and practice. Drawing on their 50+ years of experience in working with refugee populations, as well as their specific understanding of the characteristics of the Syrian children and adults entering our classrooms today, the presenters will offer concrete recommendations regarding best practices for meeting the linguistic, social, and emotional needs of these students. References to successful programs in various countries of resettlement will be provided, as well as suggestions for schools and systems that are currently developing programs and policies. Attendees will asked to identify current resources that they can adapt to serve this population and to consider what collaborations might be necessary for the development of additional support.