New Hampshire Migrant Education Program

The New Hampshire Migrant Education Program (NH MEP) addresses the unique educational barriers faced by migrant workers and their families in the state. Migrant students are some of the most disadvantaged children and youth nationwide. Many are out-of-school, and those in school are often at risk of failing or dropping out due to frequent moves, cultural differences, and language barriers. In fact, research shows that each change in school can set back a child or youth’s education by four to six months. For out-of-school youth, they may face additional problems such as social isolation, lack of knowledge of resources, or incomplete schooling.

The NH MEP serves approximately 150 migrant students annually. These students come from the United States as well as countries like Mexico, Nepal, and Guatemala. In order to be eligible for services, students must be between 3 and 21 years old, and not yet earned a high school diploma or equivalent. The NH MEP serves eligible out-of-school youth, and the children of families that have engaged in seasonal or temporary employment in the agriculture or fishing industries.

The NH MEP is authorized and funded by Title I, Part C of the Every Student Succeeds Act of 2015. The purpose of our program is to ensure that migrant students have equal opportunity to reach challenging academic standards and graduate with a high school diploma or equivalent. Our goal is to prepare these students for responsible citizenship, further learning, and productive employment. We do this by identifying and providing supplementary educational services to eligible migrant children and youth in the state of New Hampshire. Additionally, the NH MEP ensures that migrant children and youth who move across district or state lines are not unfairly penalized by disparities in curriculum, graduation requirements, or overall academic content and achievement standards.

Services we provide can include one-on-one tutoring at a student’s home or local school, referrals to service providers, and assistance with school supplies. For out-of-school youth, we provide tutoring in skills necessary for future success, such as goal setting, HiSET preparation, English as a Second Language, and personal finance. Services are designed by our staff and qualified volunteers to bridge specific gaps in learning and academic opportunity.

Visit our website for more information about the work we do and the families we serve.

The Migrant Education Program is successful because of the willingness of volunteers to share their time, energy, and skills with us. Volunteer tutors can make a huge impact on the lives of migrant workers and their children living in New Hampshire, giving them the tools and confidence they need to succeed at the same rate as their peers.

Are you interested in volunteering with us? We want to hear from you! Email Aleson Laird at aleson.s.laird@doe.nh.gov for more information or to apply as a volunteer tutor.