The English Language Institute (ELI) at Missouri State University received a $20,000 grant this month from Community Foundation of the Ozarks. The grant will help to continue the Newcomer Family Welcome Program and make English language classes accessible to recent refugees and immigrants to Springfield. The program partners the ELI, Springfield Public Schools, International Institute of Southwest Missouri and Boys and Girls Clubs of Springfield.

The Family Welcome Program provides access to high-quality English instruction for recent refugees and immigrants. It is different from other program because it is able to provide childcare for children ages birth to five while the parents study. Additionally, the program also makes transportation to the program available. This provides a warm welcome to newcomers to Springfield and English skills needed to secure employment.

Springfield Public Schools’ superintendent Dr. Grenita Lathan recently visited to celebrate the final week of this fall’s classes. Furthermore, Brad Bodenhausen, Vice President for Community and Global Partnerships, praised the program for its success in living up to the division’s name. Classes will resume in January, 2024.