2026 Bridge Conference

This workshop explores how school and expanded learning systems can better support newcomer students and families through adaptability, language access, and intentional relationship-building. Grounded in real experience as a Newcomer Student Family Liaison, the session highlights practical strategies for removing barriers, strengthening family engagement, and creating systems that foster belonging. Participants will examine how youth development principles
and culturally responsive practices can be applied to improve communication, trust, and collaboration with multilingual families. The content focuses on K–12 students, with an emphasis on newcomer and multilingual youth across elementary and secondary levels. Attendees will leave with actionable tools to create more equitable, responsive, and human-centered systems.

Affordable housing is a platform for education, equity, and community resilience. Mercy Scholars is a place-based program that works alongside families and youth by providing resources and support that will help students succeed. An essential piece of our work is in collaboration with schools and community partners; building a web of support that allows students to explore their identities and passions. This empowers youth to shape their own futures, allowing for generational transformation.

In this session, we will cover three Mercy Scholars program areas, including student support, parent engagement, and community partnerships.

Student Support: How to create a historically responsive lesson plan

Parent Engagement: How to incorporate and celebrate family brilliance

Community Partnerships: How to leverage the experts around you