NYC schools launch ‘Dream Squads’ program to provide immigrant students with essential resources and support.
In response to an unprecedented influx of migrant students, Evergreen Middle School for Urban Exploration in Brooklyn has taken proactive measures to support its growing population, particularly those arriving from South America lacking essential winter attire. As New York City’s public school system grappled with the challenge of accommodating these newcomers, staff at Evergreen recognized an immediate need and initiated a fundraiser, collecting from families to provide jackets for students who arrived unprepared for harsh winter conditions.
Counselor Lucila Macias highlighted the urgency of the situation, recalling a particularly cold day when many students from Ecuador arrived without coats. The effort quickly escalated as Macias, alongside coordinators and staff, raised approximately ,000 and repurposed a school storage area into what they now call a “dignity boutique,” offering clothing and essentials to immigrant families.
Macias, an immigrant herself from Ecuador, emphasized the importance of creating a welcoming environment that respects their dignity. Evergreen has been active in the “Dream Squads,” a citywide initiative designed to enhance support for immigrant and multilingual families within the educational framework. Each Dream Squad consists of a small team of staff dedicated to developing tailored strategies to assist these families.
Despite facing criticism over the handling of the migrant crisis during the second term of the Trump administration, city officials have sought to expand support initiatives. Recent updates from the New York City Department of Education acknowledged that Dream Squads have been instrumental in providing support to newly arrived students, helping teachers to foster inclusion and access to critical resources.
As part of its comprehensive support strategy, Evergreen has organized professional development opportunities focusing on immigration policies, and has initiated various programs such as English classes for parents, legal consultations, and workshops on the immigrant experience for educators. Notably, the school recently launched a student-led podcast addressing immigration, encouraging students to share their stories, thereby creating a platform for dialogue and understanding.
Currently, Evergreen is among the 136 schools actively participating in the Dream Squads program, receiving crucial funding aimed at improving educational outcomes for migrant students. With enrollment data showing stability — about 350 students have registered this fall, with a modest increase expected in the coming year — the school’s leadership focuses on fostering a nurturing culture that makes all students feel safe and valued.
As New York City’s educational landscape continues to adapt to demographic shifts and challenges, Evergreen Middle School stands as a model for community-driven support, illustrating the vital role of schools in addressing the needs of immigrant families in urban environments.
