Brenda Smith, introduced by the superintendent as the new Director of Migrant Programs, described the scope and services of the district’s migrant education program at the Yuma Union High School District board meeting.

Smith said the program serves between about 2,000 and 2,500 students on any given day, noting fluctuation as families travel between Yuma and California agricultural communities such as Salinas and Gilroy. She described a staff of 17: eight school advisors who communicate directly with families and students, four liaisons who act as recruiters, and three data specialists who manage registration and payments. The program also maintains a student “pass packet” for services available to migrant students and other students for a small fee.

Services described include tutoring at two locations (Yuma and San Luis), CTE materials and dual-enrollment support, college visits (recently to ASU; a U of A trip planned), cap-and-gown assistance for families who cannot afford them, optical services, assistance for out-of-school youth (including GED for those under 22), and coordination with partner schools such as Antelope, Yuma Catholic and Harvest Prep. Smith said the program holds funds for some partner schools acting as a fiscal agent but that the funds are federal dollars allocated per student count and not district general funds.

Board members asked clarifying questions about the program’s support for partner schools and the source of funds; Smith and another board member confirmed the funds are federal and allocated per migrant-student counts.