OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAIn March 2013 Fotokids started a new after school program using photography and writing skills as a means of identity and self-expression to support mainstreaming of migrant worker children in the Cutler Orosi school system.

We received a grant from Tulare County to extend this to 4 more elementary schools, in addition to the El Monte middle school, for a total involvement of 60 youth in grades 5-8..

Students work on assignments that promote identity, self-expression, the rights of the child, visual literacy and critical thinking.  Each student will receive three 4×6 prints per week to use for written reflections and keep in their portfolios.  Fotokids groups at each afterschool program work towards exhibits and/or showcases to be held in December and May.

Fotokids’ Central Valley program focuses on first-generation Spanish speaking immigrants. Research and experience has shown that immigrant youth are at high risk of becoming disconnected from school and other positive institutions that would otherwise be able to help support their learning and development.  Schools often struggle to involve recent immigrants in the activities that would provide them with opportunities for meaningful membership in a positively oriented group.