The American Dream is alive and well with the opportunity to pursue life, liberty and happiness attracting families from throughout the world. Some come to the United States seeking economic opportunity while others simply seek a safe world to raise their children. However, the current political environment has caused a new level of fear and concern making it harder than ever for schools to connect and ensure students’ academic and social success. This PR Power Hour will dive into the needs of immigrant and refugee families and the partnership, engagement and academic strategies schools can use to ensure every student is ready and able to learn.

Presenters: Trent Allen, APR, senior director, community relations, San Juan Unified School District, Carmichael, Calif. and NSPRA Southwest Region vice president, and Joseph Ortiz, director of public relations & marketing, Tolleson (Ariz.) UHSD 214

Moderator: Heidi Vega, director of communications, Arizona School Boards Association, Phoenix, Ariz. and NSPRA vice president of diversity engagement