The political, economic, and civil unrest in the world impact the United States, as it embraces refugees by opening its doors to provide a haven and opportunities for a better life. Many refugees from countries in Latin America, the Caribbean and even the Middle East have been impacted by terrorism, dictatorships, civil wars, human trafficking, and famine. As countries are negatively impacted by these events, refugees seek protection and opportunities in the United States.

The Miami-Dade County Public Schools (M-DCPS) Skills for Academic, Vocational, and English Studies (SAVES) program, first established in 1996, became a critical support for those refugees. The SAVES program was established to address the specific English language, academic, and vocational needs of the refugee population. SAVES initially served refugees, asylees, and paroles from Cuba and Haiti. It extended its services to include all refugees and asylees from all over the world, in February 2001. Services the SAVES program provides include covering the cost of tuition and books, Degree Translation/Evaluations, Bus Passes, GED testing, access to employment services assistance, and much more!

Prospects for the SAVES are identified and interviewed at time of registration. Clients must visit a Comprehensive Refugee Service (CRS) agency to receive a referral before qualifying for the SAVES program. Once the eligibility requirements are met for program participation, instructional needs and individual client vocational goals are established. English language instruction is emphasized. Classes are offered through all MDCPS adult educational centers and technical colleges throughout Miami-Dade County Schools to better serve clients. Services are limited to five (5) years from the clients’ official entry date in the U.S. and clients must reside within Miami Dade County to receive benefits.

The SAVES program is sponsored by the Florida Department of Children and Families, Refugee Services Program, and is funded solely with grants from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Refugee Resettlement.

*Services provided are available based on the availability of funds*