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Educational Programming
Access to education is a motivating factor for many Marshallese families who migrate from the Marshall Islands to the United States. While public schools are accessible to Marshallese families and opportunities for higher education and training beyond high school are available, barriers still exist for Marshallese community members.
In Springdale and many places across the United States, Marshallese youth graduate at a lower rate than most ethnic groups. Recent data indicates that high school graduation rates among Marshallese students in Arkansas ranges from 50% to 74%, well below the national average. This gap can be attributed to language and cultural differences. Additionally, Marshallese students often experience higher absenteeism rates compared to their peers, frequently due to family obligations or personal circumstances, including health. The educational attainment level of adults also correlates with the success of their children. Adults in the household who have completed college often have children who succeed in similar pursuits. Due to few opportunities in Outer Atolls of the Marshall Islands, many adults who relocate do not possess a high school diploma, and while they want their children to graduate from high school and attend college, barriers make it challenging.
MEI recognizes these systemic challenges and is dedicated to enhancing educational attainment within our community. MEI collaborates with high schools, colleges, and technical schools to promote awareness of opportunities through campus visits and enrollment events, and provides wraparound services for families.
Through a partnership with Black River Technical College in Pocahontas, AR, MEI assists Marshallese youth who enroll in allied health programs while still in high school through mentorship and tutoring programs. MEI also provides wraparound services with their families and provides professional development opportunities for educators to ensure greater cultural understanding and support. This initiative with BRTC serves as an example of how MEI can collaborate with local schools to ensure Marshallese access and opportunities.
MEI visits to Pocahontas and Paragould High Schools with members of the BRTC team.
Resources
Financial Aid
Financial aid for colleges consists of resources that assist students and their families in covering expenses related to higher education, such as tuition, fees, room, and board. This aid can take various forms, including grants, scholarships, federal and private loans, Work-Study programs, and the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which many Marshallese students apply for. It's important to note that Marshallese citizens are now eligible for in-state tuition under the renewed Compact of Free Association. If you need further assistance at no cost, please feel free to contact us or visit our office.
Higher Education
Marshall Islands Scholarship
Higher education, also known as post-secondary education, encompasses a variety of learning experiences beyond secondary school, primarily within colleges and universities. This includes institutions such as vocational schools and research universities that provide pathways to various degrees, diplomas, and certificates. MEI assists community members with the application process at no cost. It is important to note that some schools may charge an application fee; however, we advise students and parents to check if waiver programs are available.
The Marshallese government is committed to supporting its people in pursuing higher education. The program aims to empower individuals with knowledge and skills and encourage them to give back to the RMI. To achieve this, the Marshall Islands Scholarship and Grant Loan Board (MISGLB) manages a financial assistance program for qualified applicants to foster a well-educated workforce to aid in the sustainable development of the home country. Visit the MISGLB website for more information about their scholarship and requirements.