Understanding and Creating a Sense of Belonging in Immigrant-Hispanic Students

Abstract

The surge in immigrant-student populations in schools has disrupted conventional education approaches, presenting both challenges and opportunities. Language barriers, coupled with a dearth of support systems, mentors, financial aid, and health services, hinder the academic and socio-economic growth of these students. Mental health support, crucial for their well-being, faces disproportionate access challenges compounded by cultural stigmas. The cultural assimilation process further compounds the hurdles for immigrant students in American classrooms. Balancing academic rigor, social integration, and reconciling new knowledge with their backgrounds strains their adaptation. Educators' lack of understanding exacerbates these challenges, hindering effective teacher-student connections. This chapter aims not only to delineate the challenges faced by Hispanic-immigrant students but also to highlight overlooked aspects such as mental health support, counseling, and the imperative need for a sense of belonging within educational environments.