FRESNO, Calif. (KSEE) – The Fresno County Superintendent’s Office held the first Lao Mini Conference focused on educational opportunities. Many young Laos say their lives are a balancing act, striving to maintain cultural traditions and live up to the high expectations of their elders.
“There are expectations, but we're trying to educate parents that it's okay. Let's listen to our kids and let them be happy,” says Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central California. said Diane Fakonekam, CEO.
Mr. Phaconekham was one of the speakers at the first Lao Community Mini-Conference.
Fresno County Superintendent Dr. Michelle Cantwell Cofer said, “This is our opportunity to match and connect our children with services, resources and opportunities to help them achieve bright futures.” .
Parents and elders joined the students and were presented with information about when and how to apply to college, and learned more about finding financial aid and resources.
Community elders said they attended to learn how they could help the children.
“We don't know anything about the American system and how it works, but at least we can give them information about how to apply for school and how to apply for financial aid. That's really important,” said the Laotian community. said Dr. Bunrath Souksabong Han, director of the center.
The students say they are happy to have support from the Laotian community and understand why their parents encourage them to pursue education.
“Your grandparents don't want you to work in the fields. They don't want you to do this. I want to be able to do things and work around my schedule,” said Nevaeh Gonzalez, a student at Sunnyside High School.
The county government's Migrant Education Department reached out to the Laotian community to help organize the conference, which organizers say is aimed at building relationships.
“Coming from an immigrant background, we knew we had to reach out to our parents first. We have to make them trust and understand what our goals are. I'm very happy and I'm very proud of the fact that they're here talking about ways to help kids,” said Fresno County Superintendent of Schools Executive Director Ruben Castillo.
