Immigration is changing fast—and so are your students’ needs. Discover what’s really happening in 2026, how misinformation is impacting learners, and the practical strategies you need to build trust and support their path to citizenship.
About This Session
This session will be presented twice
Description
Immigration is evolving rapidly, and adult educators are on the front lines of supporting immigrant communities. In 2026, shifting policies, widespread misinformation, and increased fear are directly impacting student engagement, enrollment, and success. This session will provide a clear, up-to-date overview of the current immigration landscape and its real implications for adult learners.
Drawing from both local experience in Houston and national work with immigrant-serving organizations, this session will highlight emerging trends, common challenges, and practical strategies educators can apply immediately. Participants will learn how to address misinformation, build trust in the classroom, and effectively support students navigating the path to citizenship and integration.
What we'll cover:
This session is designed for adult educators, program managers, and service providers working with immigrant communities, particularly those supporting ESL, GED, and citizenship pathways.
Participants will be able to:
- Understand current immigration trends and policy shifts impacting adult learners in 2026
- Identify how misinformation and fear affect student engagement, retention, and decision-making
- Apply practical strategies to build trust and create safe, supportive learning environments
- Recognize the educator’s role in guiding students through citizenship and integration pathways
- Connect learners to reliable resources, including digital tools and community-based navigation services
Session Content:
- Overview of current immigration realities and their impact on adult education programs
- Key barriers to naturalization, including financial, linguistic, and informational challenges
- The growing role of misinformation in immigrant communities and its consequences
- Trust-building as a core instructional strategy
- Effective, real-world approaches to supporting students beyond the test (civic identity, engagement, and long-term integration)
- Insights from Houston and national initiatives, including collaboration models and educator networks
Planned Activities:
- Interactive reflection: participants identify challenges they are currently facing with immigrant learners
- Scenario-based discussion: addressing misinformation and fear in the classroom
- Group exchange of best practices and strategies across programs
Participants will leave with actionable strategies, practical tools, and a deeper understanding of how to effectively support immigrant learners in today’s complex and rapidly changing environment.
Topics & Focus
Primary Topic Area
Session will also cover:
Assigned by TCALL
Pending
Audience
Level
Case study?
Promotion?
A note from the presenter:
Come ready to engage—this session includes real scenarios, practical tools, and interactive discussion based on current challenges educators are facing.
Handouts & Materials
No handouts or materials available at this time.
“Name of Session” – session presentation slides (PDF)
Name of Document – lesson sample (PDF)
Name of Document (PDF)
Name of Document – infographic (JPG)
Presenter
Luis A. García-Alvarez immigrated to the U.S. at the start of the century to pursue his dreams and enhance the lives of Hispanic immigrants. In 2008, he founded SEDES (System for Education Empowerment and Success), where he serves as President. He also serves as the Senior Community Engagement Advisor for USAHello, helping immigrants achieve financial freedom and societal development. He holds a Master’s in Human Rights and International Law.
In 2021, he received the Hispanic Heritage Award from Houston and was named MLS Community MVP for representing the Houston Dynamo. His leadership on various advisory boards reflects his dedication to a brighter future. In his essay for the Hispanic Leaders Program, he envisions the U.S. as a cultural melting pot and an opportunity to strengthen the Hispanic community.
Breakout26 – GARCIA-ALVAREZ
Page checked or updated: 6/10/2026
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