Curriculum
We have designed a unique 10 week rotating curriculum for UC’s that is divided into five 2 week sections. The five sections are aligned with five core competencies in social-emotional learning (CASEL.org), which will provide key skills for young people who are unaccompanied minors in a new country. The lessons provide an active and culturally-relevant approach to learning based on Project Based Learning strategies. Our curriculum was designed by Maggie Cochran, who also created and piloted a curriculum for UC’s for the Piedmont Triad ICF. It is designed to be delivered in Spanish with a strong ESL component, covering all disciplines required by ORR (social studies, math, science, writing, reading, PE). We will help you connect it to your state’s educational standards as well.
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Our goal is to provide students with a trauma-informed educational space in order to recover from their migration journey and practical skills that will allow them to transition smoothly into their next school. Our lesson plans provide 6 hours of daily education in a way that is flexible and adaptable, so that students with low or high literacy levels will still be engaged in learning. The target age for the curriculum is 13-17 years old. It is structured such that students can enter and exit the curriculum as needed, per the unique flow of students in ORR facilities.
Our curriculum keeps safety, stability and predictability as priorities for the students. The materials are designed to create a welcoming classroom environment with stable predictable routines to minimize triggers and maximize safety.Â
Based on CASEL ideology, all lessons are designed to equip students with tools for self: self-regulation, self-empowerment, and self-esteem. We have intentionally infused this into each subject area, rather than simply designing it as a separate entity.Â
All of our lesson utilize a collaborative and hands-on approach to learning. PBL promotes critical-Thinking skills, problem-solving abilities and communication skills.
All materials are designed to encourage students to appreciate their unique cultural background and recognize the value that it brings to their new environment. All materials are bilingual, make relevant cultural references, and incorporate positive self-reflection.
