MidTESOL Matters Spring 2001

By MidTESOL's Iowa Representative, Cathy Howland 

Iowa's Governor Tom Vilsack, as part of a three-pronged plan to increase Iowa's population, is working to develop a strategic community plan to encourage a smooth transition for bringing skilled workers to Iowa from outside the United States. Skilled workers from other countries can

provide a valuable resource to Iowa employers and can add cultural richness and diversity to Iowa's communities. 

Governor Vilsack says, "We believe the key to creating a foundation for successful immigration in Iowa is to start with a model community. In the very near future, we will ask one Iowa community to work with us to develop a strategic plan for assimilating immigrants into its companies, schools and neighborhoods. By following a step-by-step plan, we can ensure that the newcomers and their community have the smoothest transition possible." Together with his Lieutenant Governor, Sally Pedersen, Vilsack wants to make Iowa a safe haven for those who need it. This would include providing opportunities for people across the world who are suffering the effects of war, famine, and illness. This initiative would include offering opportunities for work, and helping them provide their children a brighter future. In return, they would be expected to learn our language and become contributing members to our communities. 

Also coming up in Iowa is the 2001 Iowa Language and Cultural Concerns Conference. For details, see the "Upcoming Conferences" section.  

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