Lourdes University’s Division of Education has received a $375,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Education to support its mission of diversifying the educator workforce over the next three years.
Established in 2021, the Like Me program addresses the critical disparity between the racial composition of K12 teachers and students in the United States.
This grant marks a significant milestone in Lourdes University’s commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive educational environment. The program is a step toward ensuring that all students have role models who reflect their backgrounds and experiences.
According to a 2016 report by the U.S. Department of Education, less than 20 percent of the nation’s K-12 teaching workforce are teachers of color, in contrast to a student population that is more than 50 percent students of color.
Like Me aims to change this narrative by attracting, preparing and mentoring students of color to pursue careers in education.
The program has partnered with several local school districts, including Springfield Local, Sylvania, Toledo Public, Washington Local Schools, Perrysburg and Fostoria, as well as Owens Community College and Tiffin University.
For more information, contact Dr. Vince Laverick at vlaverick@lourdes.edu or call 419-824-3840.
