If you have landed on this page we hope that you have already carefully read through the 'Bringing Family' guide. This resource page is designed to give you guidelines about how to navigate the U.S. system once your family is already here and in active/legal status. Below are some links and guides that you can read through that contain extensive information about further supporting your family members.
Health
- Pregnancy & Parenting Resources - Tulane resource for taking leave of absence due to pregnancy and for resources to support your family.
- Taking Care of Your Health - Basic information about the U.S. insurance system and university requirements.
- Before Going to the ER - Ten things to know before going to the ER. Contains information about planning ahead and communicating with your pediatrician.
- Knowing When Your Child Needs Emergency Services - List of potential reasons for going to the ER and some tips on what to do in such a situation.
Safety
- Basic Safety Information - Short guide on knowing how to discern different areas for renting/living, and also making your home a safe environment for your children.
- Tulane Safety Resources - Tulane safety resources including Everbridge, personal escorts, and more.
- Hurricane Preparedness Resources - Tulane Resources on preparing for for hurricane season, including shelter in place strategies and evacuation plans.
- NOLA Ready - New Orleans website for information on preparing for emergencies, including hurricanes.
Education
- Schools and Childcare - Contains information about what education is compulsory in the U.S. and the different school levels.
- Guide to New Orleans Public vs. Private Schools - Learn the difference between public and private schools in New Orleans.
- NOLA Public Schools - Information about public schools in New Orleans and how to enroll your students.
- List of Greater New Orleans Collaborative of Charter Schools - A network of community-based public charter schools and how to apply and enroll students in their programs.
- Private Catholic Schools - A list of schools in the New Orleans area under the Archdiocese of New Orleans.
- Jefferson Parish Schools - Information for families living in Metairie, Kenner, Gretna, Marrero, Harvey, or one of the other cities in Jefferson Parish.
- Types of Early Childcare - You will be able to find information about early education and other daycare program.
- Tulane Childcare Center - Tulane University offers childcare on its downtown and uptown campuses.
- r/NOLAparents - Subreddit for parents and caregivers in the New Orleans area.
Recreation
- Recreation - Learn about what New Orleans has to offer; libraries, Louisiana Children's Museum, Audubon Zoo, etc.
- Parks - List of various parks in New Orleans.
- NORD Commission - New Orleans organization that provides safe and welcoming environments for recreational, athletic, and cultural experiences.
Get Involved
- Attend OISS Programs and Events! These are great opportunities to connect with other international students, scholars, and spouses.
- Sign up for our Digest listserv! Our Digest includes information about important immigration updates and upcoming OISS programs.
Employment as a Dependent
- Spouses in F-2 and H-4 status may not apply for or receive authorization to work in the United States. Any work would be a violation of status.
- J-2 spouses may apply for work authorization. Complete information can be found here.
