The Refugee Education Center

06/01/2026

05/29/2026

to a Project Faulu moment!

Our students had an opportunity to learn about Olympic athlete and trailblazer Ibtihaj Muhammad. Through her story, students explored the importance of representation and embracing their identity with confidence.

Students also learned about what it means to wear a hijab and how faith and culture can be an important part of who someone is. To bring the lesson to life, they even practiced fencing skills of their own — with pool noodles, of course!

Experiences like these help our students see new possibilities and build understanding across cultures. 🤺🧕

05/21/2026

05/18/2026

We are pleased to announce that Mandi Rycenga has joined the Boston Square Early Learning Center as Center Director!

"Hello! I’m Mandi and I’ve been working in early childhood education since 2006. Over the years, I’ve loved getting to be part of so many children’s early learning journeys and building meaningful connections with families.

Since stepping into center leadership in 2016, I’ve found so much joy in supporting teachers, creating strong teams, and helping build positive, welcoming environments where everyone feels at home. One of the most exciting milestones in my career was opening Hands Connected as the Center Director—I’m excited to be back and help REC continue to grow in the early learning space!

I earned my Bachelor of Arts in Youth Ministry in 2007, which really shaped my heart for working with children, mentoring others, and building strong community connections.

I truly believe these early years are so important, and I feel honored to be part of helping children grow, learn, and thrive. My goal is always to make sure every child feels safe, loved, and excited to come to school—and that every family feels connected and supported along the way!"

05/18/2026

We are excited to welcome Courtney Currie as the new Program Director at the Refugee Education Center! Courtney brings a wealth of experience in facilitation, strategy, collaboration, and developing learning experiences that help create meaningful and lasting change. Throughout her career, she has been passionate about transforming systems to foster true inclusion, equity, and belonging.

Courtney is known for her thoughtful leadership style and her ability to bring people together through candor, curiosity, and compassion. We are thrilled to have her leadership supporting our programs and helping strengthen the ways we serve refugee children and families in West Michigan. Outside of work, Courtney enjoys cooking, reading, adventuring outdoors, and spending time discussing justice, equity, and inclusion with her partner and young adult children.

05/13/2026

By joining the Refugee Education Center’s Better Together Monthly Giving Club, you help ensure refugee children and families have access to the education, resources, and support they need to thrive.

🌍 Your monthly gift—no matter the size—creates stability.
🌍 It helps us plan ahead and respond to families’ evolving needs.
🌍 It keeps our programs strong, consistent, and accessible.

https://refugeeeducationcenter.org/bettertogether

05/08/2026

Join us in celebrating the hardworking, dedicated, and compassionate teachers at the Boston Square Early Learning Center!

Their commitment, patience, and creativity are helping build a strong foundation for lifelong learning and a bright future for the children and families we serve.

Thank you for the care, encouragement, and joy you bring into the classroom each day—we are so grateful for all that you do!

05/04/2026

Looking for a meaningful way to give back this summer? Join the Refugee Education Center as a volunteer!

From supporting students in our summer programs to helping create a welcoming, engaging environment for children and families, there are so many ways to get involved. Whether you’re passionate about education, mentorship, or simply showing up for your community—your time makes a difference.

Be part of a community that’s helping refugee children and families thrive in West Michigan.

👉 Learn more and sign up: https://refugeeeducationcenter.org/volunteer