Students arrive from all parts of the world, especially
from centers of conflict. Many are directed here by the United Nations
High Commission for Refugees as well as by the International Red Cross.
Many
have spent years in refugee camps.
98
percent of students qualify for free or reduced lunch.
All
are limited or non-English speakers.
Most
have limited or no previous education. Many have no native
language literacy or basic math (pre-K level).
Many are political or economic refugees who have
experienced trauma, deprivation, and/or victimization before they
arrived.
Many students are not living with immediate family.
Some families are in homeless shelters.
Many work
as well as go to school.
Parents often work more than one job, have limited English,
and are not familiar with the Seattle school system. Consequently, the
school has no PTSA