Numerous school districts in Maine in a large number of children seeking refugee status this year.
These children were first living in hotels. Steve Bussiere, the assistant superintendent of the Sanford district, south of Portland, said that communicating with families and adding staff, including ESOL support, is among their biggest challenges.
Approximately 55 new migrant students will be attending Sanford. More than 100 will attend in other districts. In Leiston, north of Portland, a Ramada Inn will only shelter asylum seekers through Nov. 1. It is unclear where these children will reside after that date.
Despite obstacles, this case demonstrates how schools work hard to ensure that these asylum-seeking children receive good schooling and an atmosphere of encouragement.
