1. How will the recent state funding cuts affect immigrant education programs in Kansas?

The recent state funding cuts will likely have a significant impact on immigrant education programs in Kansas. These cuts could result in a reduction or elimination of these programs, leading to decreased access to education for immigrants and their families.

1. Reduced Resources: With reduced funding, immigrant education programs may have limited resources to offer services and support to students. This could lead to larger class sizes, fewer teaching materials, and limited professional development opportunities for teachers.

2. Program Closures: In some cases, the funding cuts may force schools or organizations to close their immigrant education programs altogether. This would leave many students without access to vital language and cultural integration support.

3. Decrease in Bilingual Education: Immigrant education programs often offer bilingual instruction and support for English Language Learners (ELLs). However, with reduced funds, schools may not be able to hire enough bilingual teachers or provide appropriate instructional materials for ELLs.

4. Limited Specialized Services: Immigrant education programs also provide specialized services such as tutoring, counseling, and social-emotional support for immigrant students who may face unique challenges adjusting to a new country and culture. These services could be significantly reduced or eliminated with budget cuts.

5. Impact on Student Achievement: Without sufficient resources and support from immigrant education programs, students may struggle academically and fall behind their peers. This could ultimately lead to lower achievement levels among immigrant students in the state.

In summary, the recent state funding cuts are likely to have a direct impact on the quality of education offered to immigrant students in Kansas. It is important for communities and policymakers to explore alternative funding sources or find ways to restore the funds so that these vital educational programs can continue serving this vulnerable population.

2. What specific immigrant education programs will be impacted by the funding cuts in Kansas?

There are currently no specific immigrant education programs listed as being impacted by funding cuts in Kansas. However, since many immigrant students may benefit from ESL and other language support programs, it is possible that these programs could be impacted by broader budget cuts to the state’s education system. Additionally, any changes or cuts to federal funding for English Language Learner (ELL) programs could also impact immigrant education in Kansas.

3. Are there any plans to mitigate the negative impact of state funding cuts on immigrant education programs in Kansas?

The Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE) does not have any specific plans in place to mitigate the negative impact of state funding cuts on immigrant education programs. However, the department is committed to supporting and advocating for all students, including those from immigrant backgrounds, and will continue to work with schools and districts to ensure they are able to provide necessary resources and support services for these students.

Additionally, KSDE works closely with federal grant programs, such as Title III of the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), which provides funding specifically for English language learners (ELLs). This grant can help offset some of the funding cuts at the state level.

Furthermore, KSDE encourages schools and districts to apply for grants through organizations such as the National Council of La Raza or the National Immigration Forum that provide funding for innovative programs that support immigrant students’ success.

Overall, while state funding cuts may pose challenges for immigrant education programs in Kansas, KSDE remains committed to ensuring that all students receive a quality education.

4. In what ways will the reduced funding for immigrant education programs in Kansas impact student achievement and success rates?

1. Limited access to resources and support: With reduced funding, immigrant education programs in Kansas will have limited resources to provide students with necessary materials, such as textbooks, technology, and other learning materials. This lack of resources can negatively impact student achievement by limiting their ability to fully engage in the curriculum.

2. Insufficient staffing levels: Reduced funding for immigrant education programs could lead to fewer teachers and staff members available to support these students. This can result in larger class sizes, which can make it challenging for teachers to give individualized attention and support to each student. As a result, students may struggle academically and may not receive the necessary support they need to succeed.

3. Elimination or reduction of language assistance services: Many immigrant students come from non-English speaking backgrounds and may require additional language assistance services to help them learn English. With reduced funding, these services may be eliminated or reduced, making it harder for students to learn the language and ultimately impacting their academic success.

4. Limited access to extracurricular activities: Extracurricular activities are an important factor in overall student success. However, with reduced funding, schools may have to cut back on these programs, leaving immigrant students with limited opportunities outside the classroom. This lack of involvement can impact their social and emotional well-being and potentially affect their academic performance.

5. Increased dropout rates: Without proper support and resources, many immigrant students may become discouraged and disengaged from their education, leading to increased dropout rates. Students who drop out of school are less likely to obtain the necessary skills required for college success or future employment opportunities.

6. Negative impact on school culture: With less funding for immigrant education programs, schools may struggle to create an inclusive environment that embraces diversity and supports all students regardless of their background. This can negatively impact school culture and student morale, creating a challenging learning environment for immigrant students.

In conclusion, reduced funding for immigrant education programs in Kansas can have a detrimental impact on students’ academic achievement and success rates. It is crucial for schools to have the necessary resources and support to provide quality education to immigrant students, who often face unique challenges and barriers in their learning.

5. What efforts are being made by local organizations to fill the gap left by state funding cuts for immigrant education programs in Kansas?

There are several efforts being made by local organizations in Kansas to fill the gap left by state funding cuts for immigrant education programs. These include:

1. Non-profit organizations and community-based organizations: Many non-profit organizations and community-based organizations in Kansas, such as the Sunflower Community Action, the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, and the United Community Services of Johnson County, are stepping up to provide educational programs and services for immigrants. They offer English language classes, citizenship preparation courses, job training, and other essential skills training.

2. Local school districts: Some local school districts have implemented programs specifically designed for immigrant students. For example, the Wichita Public Schools offer an ESL (English as a Second Language) program that provides specialized instruction to help students with limited English proficiency succeed academically.

3. Faith-based groups: Churches and other faith-based organizations have also taken on the role of providing educational support to immigrant communities in Kansas. These groups often offer English language classes, tutoring programs, and other forms of educational assistance.

4. Collaboration with universities: Some universities in Kansas are partnering with local organizations to provide resources for immigrant education. For instance, Emporia State University’s The Jones Institute for Educational Excellence has partnered with a non-profit organization called El Centro Inc., which offers adult education programs for Latino immigrants.

5. Crowdfunding campaigns: In response to funding cuts, some local communities have launched crowdfunding campaigns to raise money for immigrant education programs. For example, Wichita educators started a fundraising campaign called “MyPath” to support English language learners in the community.

6. Volunteer efforts: Local volunteers have also taken an active role in filling the gap left by state funding cuts for immigrant education programs. They assist with teaching English classes or provide tutoring services.

Overall, these efforts by local organizations demonstrate a strong commitment to supporting immigrant communities in Kansas and ensuring they have access to educational opportunities despite funding challenges from the state government.

6. How do these funding cuts align with the state’s commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion through education?

The funding cuts do not align with the state’s commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion through education. Cutting funding for public schools can disproportionately affect minority and low-income students who rely on those funds to receive a quality education. Without proper funding, these students may not have access to resources and programs that help foster diversity and promote inclusive learning environments. In fact, these budget cuts could lead to further segregation and inequality within the education system, working against the state’s goal of promoting diversity and inclusion in schools. Additionally, reducing funds for colleges and universities can limit opportunities for marginalized communities to pursue higher education, hindering efforts towards creating a more diverse workforce.

7. Will there be any adjustments made to immigration policies as a result of these state funding cuts on immigrant education programs in Kansas?

It is possible that there could be some adjustments made to immigration policies as a result of these state funding cuts on immigrant education programs in Kansas. These cuts could potentially make it more difficult for immigrants to access education and resources, which could impact their ability to assimilate and contribute to society. This could lead to discussions and debates about the effectiveness of these funding cuts on overall immigration policies and the treatment of immigrants in the state. Additionally, these cuts may also affect any incentives or initiatives meant to attract immigrants to Kansas, which could have an impact on the diversity and growth of the state. However, it is not certain exactly how or if these funding cuts will directly influence immigration policies at this time.

8. How will students from immigrant backgrounds be supported and provided with equitable opportunities for learning without sufficient state funding for their education in Kansas?

There are a few ways that students from immigrant backgrounds can be supported and provided with equitable opportunities for learning without sufficient state funding in Kansas:

1. Creating culturally responsive classrooms: Teachers can create inclusive and welcoming environments by incorporating diverse perspectives, experiences, and cultures into their curriculum. This can help students from immigrant backgrounds feel seen, heard, and appreciated in the classroom.

2. Providing language support: Many students from immigrant backgrounds may be learning English as a second language. Schools can offer ESL programs or bilingual education to support these students in their language development.

3. Offering targeted academic support: Students from immigrant backgrounds may face additional challenges in academics due to their background or immigration status. Schools can provide additional resources, such as tutoring or after-school programs, to help these students catch up academically and succeed in school.

4. Promoting cultural understanding and respect: Schools can organize cultural events or activities that celebrate diversity and promote understanding among students from different backgrounds. This can foster a sense of belonging for students from immigrant families and help build supportive relationships within the school community.

5. Partnering with community organizations: Nonprofit organizations or community groups can partner with schools to provide additional resources and support for students from immigrant backgrounds. These partnerships can provide valuable resources like mental health services, food assistance, and scholarships for higher education.

Overall, it is important for schools to prioritize the needs of students from immigrant backgrounds and advocate for adequate funding at the state level. By creating an inclusive and supportive environment for all students, regardless of their background or immigration status, schools can help ensure that all students have equal opportunities for learning and success.

9. Have any alternative sources of funding been secured to sustain these critical immigrant education programs after the budget cuts in Kansas?

There are a few alternative sources of funding that have been secured to sustain critical immigrant education programs after the budget cuts in Kansas. These include:

1. Private Grants: Non-profit organizations such as the National Council of La Raza and the Hispanic Scholarship Fund offer grants specifically targeted towards supporting education for immigrants and children of immigrants. These grants can be used to fund scholarships, research, and programmatic support for immigrant education.

2. Community Partnerships: Many community organizations and businesses have stepped up to help fund programs that support immigrant education. For example, local businesses may sponsor scholarships or provide funding for after-school programs.

3. Federal Programs: Federal programs such as Title III- Language Instruction for Immigrant Students and Title I – Migrant Education Program provide federal funds specifically designated for supporting the education of immigrant students.

4. Crowdfunding: Some schools or community organizations may turn to crowdfunding platforms such as GoFundMe or Kickstarter to raise funds for critical immigrant education programs.

5. State Funding from Other Sources: While overall state funding for education has been cut in Kansas, there may be other funding sources that schools or districts can access through competitive grants or partnerships with other agencies.

6. Fundraising Events: Schools or non-profit organizations may hold fundraising events such as charity auctions or benefit dinners to raise funds for critical immigrant education programs.

It is important to note that while these alternative sources of funding can help sustain critical immigrant education programs in the short term, they are not a long-term solution to address budget cuts in Kansas. Advocacy efforts and continued pressure on state legislators will also be crucial in securing sustained funding for these vital programs.

10. How does cutting funds for bridging language and cultural gaps among immigrants align with our values as a society in Kansas?

Cutting funds for bridging language and cultural gaps among immigrants does not align with our values as a society in Kansas. In fact, it goes against the values of inclusivity, diversity, and equal opportunity that are celebrated in our state.

By cutting funding for programs that aim to help immigrants integrate into their new homes and communities, we are sending a message that we do not value their contributions or presence in our society. This can foster feelings of exclusion and discrimination among immigrants and hinder their ability to fully participate in the social, economic, and civic aspects of life in Kansas.

Moreover, investing in language and cultural bridging programs benefits not only immigrants but also the wider community. Through these programs, individuals from different backgrounds can come together to learn from one another and build understanding and respect for each other’s cultures. This promotes a more cohesive society where everyone is valued and included.

Cutting funds for bridging language and cultural gaps among immigrants goes against our shared values as Kansans of treating others with compassion, respect, and fairness. It also goes against our core belief in giving everyone an equal chance to succeed regardless of their background.

11. What message does this decision to cut funding for immigrant education programs send about our priorities as a state in terms of supporting diverse communities and promoting educational equity?

The decision to cut funding for immigrant education programs sends a message that our state prioritizes the interests of certain groups over others and is not committed to promoting educational equity. By cutting funding for these programs, the state is signaling that it does not see immigrant communities as a valuable and integral part of our society worth investing in. This decision also suggests a lack of understanding and appreciation for the unique challenges and barriers faced by immigrant students in accessing quality education.

Furthermore, this decision may perpetuate systemic inequalities, as it will likely disproportionately affect low-income and marginalized communities who rely on these programs for support. It also sends a message to these communities that their needs are not important or deserving of resources. This approach ignores the fact that investing in diverse communities and providing equal access to education can ultimately benefit society as a whole.

In terms of promoting educational equity, cutting funding for immigrant education programs undermines efforts towards creating an inclusive and equitable education system. It disregards the fact that all students, regardless of their background or immigration status, have the right to receive a high-quality education. By neglecting the needs of immigrant students, we are neglecting our responsibility as a state to ensure that all students have an equal opportunity to succeed.

12. What consequences can we expect to see for both immigrants and non-immigrants alike due to decreased access to quality education for immigrants without sufficient state support in Kansas?

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Decreased access to quality education can have significant negative consequences for both immigrants and non-immigrants alike.

First, if immigrants do not have access to quality education, they may struggle to learn English and other necessary skills. This can make it difficult for them to find employment or advance in their careers, which could lead to financial instability.

Second, without access to quality education, immigrants may also be at a disadvantage when it comes to accessing higher education. This could limit their opportunities for personal and professional growth, as well as hinder their ability to contribute positively to the economy.

Third, decreased access to quality education for immigrants could perpetuate cycles of poverty and inequality. Without sufficient state support, immigrant communities may not have the resources or opportunities needed to improve their socioeconomic status and break out of poverty.

For non-immigrants, decreased access to quality education for immigrants could also have negative consequences. First, it could limit diversity and cultural exchange in schools and communities. Education is an important tool for promoting understanding and acceptance of different cultures and backgrounds. By limiting access for immigrants, non-immigrant students could miss out on valuable learning experiences.

Additionally, a lack of support for immigrant students could lead to increased segregation in schools and communities. This could further perpetuate divisions between immigrant and non-immigrant populations.

In essence, decreased access to quality education for immigrants without sufficient state support in Kansas could have far-reaching consequences that affect both immigrants and non-immigrants alike. It is important for states to prioritize providing equal educational opportunities for all students regardless of their immigration status.

13. Are there any plans or initiatives being undertaken at the federal level that could potentially offset the impact of these harsh budget cuts on immigrant education programs at the state level?

The federal government has several initiatives in place that could help offset the impact of budget cuts on immigrant education programs at the state level, including:

1. The Department of Education’s Office of English Language Acquisition (OELA) administers various grant programs to support the education of English language learners (ELLs), including immigrants. These grants provide funding for professional development programs, technology resources, literacy instruction, and other educational services.

2. The Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) requires states to include ELLs in their academic assessments and provide appropriate accommodations for these students. It also provides funding for various programs and services that aim to improve outcomes for ELLs, such as English proficiency instruction, family engagement activities, and bilingual education.

3. The Refugee School Impact Grant Program provides funding to states to help them meet the needs of newly arrived refugees in their school systems. This includes providing English language instruction and additional supports for students with limited or interrupted formal education.

4. The Elementary and Secondary Education Act also provides funds specifically designated for immigrant education through Title III – Language Instruction for English Learners and Immigrant Students. This money can be used by schools to support ELLs, including new immigrant students, in areas such as language acquisition, academic achievement, parental involvement, and teacher training.

Overall, while federal initiatives may not completely offset state budget cuts on immigrant education programs, they can certainly provide much-needed resources and support to ensure that these students have access to quality education opportunities.

14. Has there been any research conducted on how these recent cuts may contribute to long-term challenges faced by immigrants trying to integrate into society and make meaningful contributions to their communities within Kansas?

There have been some studies and reports that have examined the potential long-term consequences of immigration cuts in Kansas. For example, a 2018 report from the Migration Policy Institute examined the effects of recent immigration policies and enforcement actions on immigrant communities in Kansas. The report found that these policies could lead to increased social exclusion and marginalization, as well as economic hardship for immigrants and their families.

Other studies have also highlighted the negative impact immigration cuts could have on local economies in Kansas. A 2017 report from New American Economy found that immigrants play a vital role in the state’s economy, contributing significantly to industries such as agriculture, healthcare, and manufacturing. The report warned that restrictions on immigration and decreased diversity in the workforce could harm overall economic growth and development.

Additionally, there are concerns about how recent immigration cuts may affect the education system in Kansas. A study by the University of Kansas found that children from immigrant families often face barriers to education due to language barriers, increased anxiety caused by anti-immigrant rhetoric, and limited access to resources and support systems. These challenges may be exacerbated by further cuts to immigration which could result in fewer resources available for schools with high populations of immigrant students.

Overall, research suggests that recent immigration cuts in Kansas may contribute to long-term challenges faced by immigrants trying to integrate into society and make meaningful contributions to their communities. These challenges include social exclusion, economic hardships, and barriers to education – all of which can ultimately hinder immigrants’ ability to fully participate in society and make positive contributions within their communities.

15. What specific steps are being taken to address the concerns raised by immigrant advocacy groups regarding the impacts of state funding cuts on immigrant education programs in Kansas?

The Kansas Board of Regents, which oversees higher education in the state, has taken several steps to address the concerns raised by immigrant advocacy groups regarding funding cuts for immigrant education programs. These include:

1. Establishing a Diversity and Inclusion Taskforce: The Board of Regents established a task force specifically focused on diversity and inclusion, including issues related to immigrant education. This task force is responsible for making recommendations to the Board on strategies to promote diversity and inclusion within Kansas Higher Education.

2. Securing Funding for Undocumented Students: In 2015, the Board of Regents approved a policy that allows undocumented students who have received Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) status to pay in-state tuition rates at Kansas public universities and colleges. This decision was made in response to concerns about funding cuts making it difficult for undocumented students to afford higher education.

3. Supporting Culturally Responsive Teaching: The Board of Regents has also encouraged faculty and staff at its institutions to receive training on culturally responsive teaching practices. This includes addressing cultural biases and creating an inclusive learning environment for all students, including immigrants.

4. Collaborating with Community Organizations: The Board of Regents has partnered with community organizations, such as Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and Minority Leaders from various ethnic communities, to ensure that the voices of underrepresented groups are heard in board discussions and decisions.

5. Allocating Supplemental Funds: In addition to budget cuts, the Kansas legislature also allocated supplemental funds in 2018 to support strategic initiatives at regents’ institutions during fiscal years 2019 through 2022. These funds will support targeted initiatives aimed at increasing access to higher education for underrepresented groups, including immigrants.

6. Enhancing Recruitment Efforts: The Board of Regents has directed its member institutions to enhance their recruitment efforts towards diverse student populations, including working closely with high schools with large numbers of immigrant students.

Overall, the Kansas Board of Regents is committed to promoting diversity, inclusion, and access to higher education for immigrant students in the state. They will continue to work with community partners and institutions to ensure that the concerns raised by immigrant advocacy groups are being addressed.

16. Are there any provisions within these budget cuts to ensure that marginalized and underrepresented immigrant groups are not disproportionately affected by reduced funding for their educational opportunities in Kansas?

There are no specific provisions in the budget cuts to address potential disproportionate effects on marginalized and underrepresented immigrant groups. However, it is important for school districts and education officials to prioritize equitable distribution of resources and support for these groups in light of budget cuts. Additionally, community organizations, advocacy groups, and lawmakers can push for policies that address and mitigate any impacts on these communities.

17. How do these funding cuts align with the state’s values of providing equal opportunities for all students, regardless of background or immigration status, in Kansas?

These funding cuts do not align with the state’s values of providing equal opportunities for all students, regardless of background or immigration status, in Kansas. By reducing funding for schools with high numbers of immigrant and low-income students, the state is effectively denying these students the resources they need to succeed academically. This goes against the principle of equal opportunity, as it creates a system where students from different backgrounds are not given an equal chance to excel and reach their full potential. Furthermore, it sends a message that these students are not valued and their education is not a priority for the state. This does not align with the values of treating all individuals with dignity and respect, regardless of their background or immigration status.

18. In what ways will these budget cuts hinder the progress and success of existing immigrant education programs that have been proven to be effective and beneficial for both immigrants and the state as a whole in Kansas?

1. Reduction in resources and support: Budget cuts will lead to a reduction in resources and support for existing immigrant education programs. This may include cutting funding for materials, technology, and staff, all of which are necessary for the success of these programs.

2. Decreased access to education: With fewer resources and staff, existing immigrant education programs may not be able to serve as many students as before. This will decrease access to education for immigrants who rely on these programs to learn English, improve their academic skills, and adjust to American culture.

3. Strained capacity: Existing immigrant education programs may already be working at full capacity due to the high demand for their services. Budget cuts may make it even more challenging for these programs to meet the needs of all their students adequately, leading to overcrowded classrooms and longer waitlists.

4. Reduced program effectiveness: As a result of budget cuts, existing immigrant education programs may have to reduce or eliminate vital components that contribute to their effectiveness. For example, they may have to cut back on specialized language instruction or cultural orientation classes that help immigrants adapt better.

5. Limited opportunities for skill development: Many existing immigrant education programs offer job training and career development opportunities for their students. Budget cuts may limit or eliminate these opportunities, making it harder for immigrants to gain the skills they need to secure better jobs and achieve financial stability.

6. Negative impact on integration efforts: Immigrant education programs not only teach language and academic skills but also serve as a bridge between communities and help immigrants integrate into society. Budget cuts could hamper these efforts by limiting the scope of such programs and reducing their reach within immigrant communities.

7. Risk of program closure: In extreme cases, budget cuts could result in the closure of existing immigrant education programs altogether. This would leave immigrants without any viable options for learning English or getting assistance with other essential skills needed for successful integration into society.

8. Negative impact on the state’s economy: Immigrant education programs are essential for helping immigrants develop the skills and knowledge needed to contribute to the state’s economy. Budget cuts could result in a less educated and skilled immigrant population, which could ultimately hinder economic growth and development.

9. Reduced support for vulnerable populations: Many immigrants who participate in existing education programs come from low-income backgrounds or face other barriers to accessing education. Budget cuts could lead to reduced support for these vulnerable populations, making it even more challenging for them to overcome existing challenges and achieve personal and professional success.

10. Negative perception of immigrants: Existing immigrant education programs serve as a way to promote understanding and respect for different cultures within communities. With budget cuts, these programs may not be able to fulfill this role effectively, leading to misconceptions and negative stereotypes about immigrants within the state.

Overall, budget cuts will severely hinder the progress and success of existing immigrant education programs in Kansas, negatively impacting both individual immigrants and the state as a whole. It is crucial for policymakers to consider the detrimental effects of these cuts on immigrant communities and work towards finding alternative solutions that do not compromise the opportunities provided by these vital programs.

19. Will this reduction in funding for immigrant education programs ultimately save taxpayer money, or will it result in increased costs due to negative consequences such as higher drop-out rates and lower workforce productivity among immigrants living in Kansas?

It is difficult to accurately predict the long-term economic impact of reducing funding for immigrant education programs in Kansas. While reducing funding may save some money in the short term, it could potentially lead to negative consequences that could ultimately cost taxpayers more in the long run.

One possible consequence of reduced funding for immigrant education programs is an increase in drop-out rates among immigrant students. If these students are not able to receive appropriate education and support, they may struggle to succeed academically and may be less prepared for the workforce. This could result in a less educated workforce and potentially lower productivity, which could ultimately have a negative impact on Kansas’ economy.

Additionally, lack of access to education for immigrants could also limit their employment opportunities, leading to higher levels of poverty and reliance on public assistance programs. This would also have a financial cost for taxpayers.

Moreover, investing in immigrant education can have long-term benefits for society as a whole. Studies have shown that immigrants who receive quality education are more likely to contribute positively to their communities and pay higher taxes as adults. This could help offset the initial costs of providing education programs for immigrants.

In conclusion, while reducing funding for immigrant education programs may save some money in the short term, it is unclear whether it will lead to overall cost savings. It is important for policymakers to carefully consider the potential economic consequences before making decisions about funding for these programs.

20. What can we do as concerned citizens to advocate for continued support and adequate funding for vital immigrant education programs in Kansas despite these recent budget cuts?

1. Contact your local legislators: Reach out to your state representatives and senators to express your concerns about the budget cuts for immigrant education programs in Kansas. Explain why these programs are important and how they directly benefit the community.

2. Write letters or emails: Send letters or emails to relevant government officials, such as the governor, education commissioner, or school board members, urging them to restore funding for immigrant education programs.

3. Attend public hearings: Keep an eye out for public hearings or town hall meetings where budget discussions will take place. Attend these meetings and voice your support for immigrant education programs.

4. Join advocacy groups: Look for local advocacy groups that are working towards improving the education system in Kansas. Join these groups and collaborate with them to advocate for immigrant education programs.

5. Use social media: Share information about the budget cuts on social media platforms and raise awareness among your friends, family, and followers. Use hashtags to attract attention and possibly reach policymakers directly.

6. Educate others: It is important to educate others about the importance of immigrant education programs in Kansas and how their funding cuts can negatively impact the community as a whole.

7. Collaborate with schools: Work with local schools that have a significant number of immigrant students to create a united front in advocating for continued funding for these programs.

8. Utilize resources from advocacy organizations: Reach out to national or state-level advocacy organizations that specialize in immigrant education issues. They may have resources or strategies that can help in advocating for continued support and funding.

9. Share personal stories: If you or someone you know has personally benefited from an immigrant education program, share this story with policymakers and the public to demonstrate the positive impact these programs have on individuals and communities.

10. Vote wisely: Be informed about candidates’ stances on immigration and education before voting in elections at any level, from local school boards to state-level positions.