
Texas MEP Quarterly
MEP Staff Edition: September 2023 - November 2023
The September - November issue of the Texas MEP Quarterly Family Edition is now available.
If you missed the June - August Texas MEP Quarterly Staff Edition, you may access it here.
Do not forget to join the TMEP Listserv to continue receiving this newsletter each quarter and important updates about the Migrant Education Program.
In The Know
Fall Best Practices Virtual Showcase
The next Best Practices Virtual Showcase will be held on November 1, 2023, from 9:00 - 11:00 a.m. CST. The topic for this event will focus on Asset Mapping/Contact Resources. We encourage LEA MEP staff from across the state to submit an application to present a 30-minute presentation virtually to a statewide audience. These events showcase the best practices LEA MEP staff are utilizing that impact the implementation of an effective Migrant Education Program.
Presenters will be helping to provide guidance and information to help attendees learn how they might implement a similar best practice in their schools.
Apply today!
MEP Staff Spotlight
Do you know an incredible member of our MEP family who is making a remarkable difference in our region or district? We're thrilled to announce our brand-new program spotlight, where we celebrate the exceptional work of our dedicated Texas MEP staff.
Nominate that standout colleague who is going above and beyond to create a positive impact. Whether it's supporting migratory students and families in the great state of Texas or contributing in other extraordinary ways, we want to hear about it!
Your nomination could mean their moment to shine right here in our newsletter. Let's recognize and honor those who are making a real difference. Don't miss out – fill out the quick and easy nomination form today!
Texas Migrant Education Program (TMEP) Web Portal
The TMEP portal has recently been redesigned to help streamline access to many resources that are available there. Visit the portal today to find:
A direct link to the Frequently Used Resources on the home page, allowing fast access to these common resources.
Access to current and past editions of the MEP Quarterly Newsletters.
Simplified access to information for migratory parents and families.
Check back often to find what other new updates are available.
Education Resources
Education Resources Portal
The Education Resources Portal provides free resources to support the children in your migratory families. In addition to the reading and writing mini-lessons, tip sheets, and videos, check out the newly-added math resources for grades kindergarten through second grade. The math resources for grades K-2 align with the Texas math standards (TEKS) and are intended for parents to use with their children at home. This vertical alignment document lists all of the TEKS that are covered in the mini-lessons. These can be very helpful for children currently in grades K-2, and also for children in grades 3-5 who may be struggling with any of these concepts. Great resources to share at a back-to-school or outreach night!
Timeline of Events
Best Practices Virtual Showcase
November 1, 2023
9:00 am - 11:00 am
Texas 2022-23 Annual MEP Evaluation
The process for completing and collecting Fidelity of Strategy Implementation (FSI) responses by MEP projects will be conducted via Qualtrics survey.
2022-23 Data Needs Checklist - Checklist for ESCs/projects to use to ensure that all 2021-22 evaluation data is submitted. Includes links/QR codes to the surveys, persons responsible, who to submit data to, and timelines. – Due September 15, 2023.
Updated Fidelity of Strategy Implementation (FSI) Collection Process - The process for completing and collecting FSI responses by MEP projects will be conducted via Qualtrics survey. The links for all 4 surveys are included in the Updated FSI Process handout.
FSIs are due on September 15, 2023.
ID&R Certification for 2023-2024
All MEP staff involved in the ID&R process for the 2023-2024 school year follow should follow the guidance below regarding the ID&R Online Course:
• If you took the ID&R Online Course on/or after September 1, 2022, you are still certified to conduct recruitment until the new course becomes available.
• If you have not taken the online course since September 1, 2022, you can take the course currently available.
This course provides basic information regarding the Texas Migrant Education Program (MEP) and the responsibilities that local recruiters have in the identification and recruitment of migratory children in Texas. NOTE: This is an online self-paced Canvas course. Upon registration, participants will receive an email with the instructions on how to login to Canvas to complete this course. Participants will need to (i) check their email, (ii) follow the instructions on how to login to Canvas, (iii) complete the self-paced online course, and (iv) after course completion, return to this workshop to confirm course completion & test. The updated Texas Identification & Recruitment Online Course opens August 31, 2023. To access the course, please register at esc1.net.
Upcoming Events
October 4-6, 2023
Corpus Christi, TX
October 24-27, 2023
Omni Mandalay Hotel at Las Colinas, TX
November 15-17, 2023
McAllen, TX
Family/Student Resources to Share
What kind of support is there for my out-of-school youth who is not enrolled in school?
The Migrant Education Program offers resources to support out-of-school youth. Out-of-school youth include those who have dropped out of school, have not graduated from a U.S. high school, or are here to work only, and have no intention of enrolling in school. The free resources available, include options to complete a high school equivalency program or for workforce development, including job training and job search assistance. To learn about these resources and more, visit the Opportunities for Success for All Youth page on the Texas Migrant Education Program website.
The National School Lunch Program
The National School Lunch Program provides free or reduced-cost lunches to students in public and nonprofit private schools. Eligible students include those enrolled in Head Start, homeless children, and those from migrant families. Additionally, students qualify if their families receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits.
Parents or guardians must fill out the application for the program every year to ensure continued participation. To apply, contact your child's school, which can be found by using the Texas School District Locator. By participating in the National School Lunch Program, families can help support their children's well-being and academic success.
Texas Migratory Family Helpline
Final Thoughts
Please encourage your migratory families and MEP staff to join the TMEP Listserv to continue receiving TMEP quarterly newsletters and up-to-date information about the Migrant Education Program.