I teach in the Newcomer center at Central High School. Nearly forty students have passed through my classroom over the past five years arriving from the Hmong refugee camp of Wat Thamkrabok, Thailand. My students were born and raised in refugee camps and have not known anything else until they arrived in the United States. They are causalities of a war that they never witnessed. Their forefathers fought in the Vietnam War by assisting U.S. and ally troops in navigating through the mountains in and out of Vietnam.
Here, my students have faced many challenges in adapting to our country. It has been an amazing privilege to see help them learn English, mature and develop their niche within our community. One of their greatest challenges has been their education. Many of my students began their formal education here in the U.S. This year will be the end of the Newcomer Center as sixteen students will graduate and move on to the next challenge of their young lives. This is the first and largest group of newcomers to graduate.
I am in awe of their hard work and determination that has lead to their graduation. Over the past four years I have watched them blossom from timid and confused, to competent, assertive and creative students; each one having something valuable to offer. I can’t help but think that I have learned much more from them than I have ever hoped of teaching them.
Just like the Hmong who came before them over the past three decades and helped pave the way for them. I envision my students becoming actively engaged in our community. Given the chance, they will undoubtedly be great leaders within their own community, as well as valued contributors and positive influences to others around them.
More than a teacher for them, I am like a proud “mother” watching them advance to the next stage of their precious lives. Once my official job with them is done, I will miss their beautiful smiling faces lovingly greeting me each morning. This summer, I hope to help them foster more connections to the local community. If you, your establishment or group is interested in hearing their story or connect with them, feel free to get in contact with me.
My dream is to make their departure from Central High School a memorable event. They have all accomplished great things. Since, they all started from different points, they have arrived in various places of understanding of the English language and American culture. Some are ready to go on to university studies; others may choose to pursue education in technical vocations, directly enter the work force or raise their children. No matter, which avenue they pursue, I am confident that they will go on to be productive members of our community.
I am planning an elaborate graduation celebration for them on June 13th—to which they could invite their family, friends and teachers. I hope to provide them with gifts that may help them pursue their future goals. I have committed to providing them with yearbooks, a cost I will assume if I do not get enough to cover them. I would appreciate anyone who may be moved to contribute financially.
I would like to invite our community to help open doors for these students. While any and all financial contributions will be greatly appreciated, there are other opportunities to give items such as gift certificates, scholarships or other items for gifts; additionally, food, drink, decorations and paper products will be needed for the event.
These students deserve so much more than any one of us could offer them for all they have been through; surprisingly none are embittered by their circumstances. They are always grateful for all that is done for them.
In closing, I would be grateful for any opportunity to give my students a brighter future. They have had several new beginnings and challenges throughout their lives as a result of the heroic and generous efforts of their forefathers who have fought to keep our country free. Please consider helping me to make this a positive new beginning for them. As for me, my new beginning is yet to be determined!
Most importantly, please keep my students and this project in your prayers! Being a public school teacher, I cannot actively share my faith with my students. However, I do my best to model a Christ-like behavior and attitude as well as hold them up in prayer. Remember we are blessed to be a blessing, let the flame go out to our students!
In Christ, Jennie
Any contributions may be sent to Central High School:
Jennifer Bolen
ELL Newcomer Teacher
Central High School
1810 Losey Blvd. S.
La Crosse, WI 54601
•Checks may be made out to Central High School with Newcomer Celebration in the memo.
•For other contributions, please contact Ms. Bolen: jbolen@sdlax.k12.wi.us
After June 12th, I will be available at the following: jenniebolen@gmail.com
Future plans and interests of my students include: medical careers, mechanic, computer technology, art, math, teaching, beauty school, childcare, music, sewing, cooking, soccer, law enforcement, small engine repair, finances, banking, x-stitch, embroidery, etc.
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