Building Inclusive Schools: How NYC’s Dream Squads Initiative Supports Immigrant Students

By Ben Blanco
English PDF  

This policy brief explores the transformative impact of New York City’s Dream Squads Initiative, a program aimed at fostering inclusive and supportive school environments for immigrant and multilingual students. With immigrant-origin children comprising a quarter of the U.S. school-age population, this initiative addresses critical challenges faced by these communities. Launched in 2021, the Dream Squads Initiative has expanded to over 113 schools and two districts, focusing on school leadership, educator engagement, student empowerment, and family involvement. By leveraging innovative strategies such as collaborative training sessions, inter-school resource sharing, and culturally responsive practices, the initiative has empowered educators and students alike. This brief outlines key principles behind its success and offers actionable recommendations for policymakers and educators seeking to replicate its model of inclusivity and support.

For media outreach about the brief, please contact:
immigrationinitiative@harvard.edu