Lynwood Unified Multilingual Learners Find Community during Annual Newcomers Welcome Event

Lynwood Unified welcomed more than 120 recently arrived multilingual learners during its annual Newcomers Welcome on September 26, continuing its tradition of supporting students as they adjust to life in a new school community.

Multilingual learners from Lynwood and Firebaugh high schools, as well as Hosler and Cesar Chavez middle schools, received information on District services, learned about immigrant rights, and set academic goals such as passing the English Language Proficiency Assessment for California (ELPAC) and working toward the State Seal of Biliteracy.

“I like finding out about all the different classes and programs we can get involved in,” said Lynwood High senior Gustavo Gonzalez, who is originally from El Salvador and was recently reclassified as English proficient. “This really motivates me to keep learning. I hope to receive a Seal of Biliteracy when I graduate.”

Firebaugh High School alumna Cintia Erazo – now a UC Santa Cruz graduate working with the Legal Aid Foundation in Los Angeles – encouraged students to overcome challenges that come with acclimating to a new environment.

“Before all the degrees, before all the job titles, I was just a girl in a classroom,” the Honduran native said. “I came to believe that education can be my way forward, that knowledge could change my life. Education is a powerful tool. It’s one of the few things nobody can take away from you. Ask for help, build your community. You are not alone.”

Student leaders also promoted clubs such as the La Raza Club, which is available at both high schools, the Sueños Club at Firebaugh, and the Spanish Drama Club at Lynwood.

At Lynwood Unified, every student’s journey matters. No matter their background or immigration status, students are embraced with support, opportunity and the belief that education can change lives. By nurturing resilience and unlocking brilliance, the District empowers students to dream big, break barriers and become leaders who inspire their communities and beyond.