Our Mission: Cultivating a Diverse and Thriving Educator Landscape Re-Imagine Education is a passionate organization dedicated to fostering a future where educators of color are not just present, but thriving. We believe that a diverse teaching workforce is not just beneficial, it's essential. It allows students to see themselves reflected in their educators, fostering a sense of belonging and igniting a passion for learning.
The Power of Mentorship, Accountability, and Partnership
Our mission extends beyond simply attracting talented educators of color. We are committed to retaining them by fostering a supportive and inclusive culture. This culture is built on three pillars: mentorship, accountability, and partnership.
Mentorship: We connect aspiring and current educators of color with experienced mentors who can provide guidance and support throughout their careers.
Accountability: We hold ourselves and our partners accountable for creating equitable and empowering environments for all educators.
Partnership: We believe collaboration is key. We work with educational institutions, policymakers, and community organizations to dismantle systemic barriers and create a more equitable system.
The Visionaries Behind Re-Imagine Education Re-Imagine Education is the brainchild of Isiah King and Keith Streicher, two educators with over a decade of combined experience at the K-12 and university levels. Their dedication stems from a firsthand understanding of the challenges and rewards that come with a career in education.
Our Focus: Building a Strong Pipeline for the Future
Launched in July 2020, Re-Imagine Education is laser-focused on increasing and diversifying the teacher pipeline. We achieve this through a multi-pronged approach:
Embedding Equity and Cultural Responsiveness: We advocate for the integration of equity and cultural responsiveness into teacher preparation programs and professional development opportunities. This ensures that educators are equipped to create inclusive and culturally relevant learning environments for all students.
Empowering Aspiring Teachers: We remove barriers for those passionate about entering the education field. We offer resources and guidance to aspiring teachers of color, smoothing the path towards a fulfilling career in education. The Impact of a Diverse Teaching Force
Research by the Learning Policy Institute underscores the profound impact that teachers of color can have on their students. Studies show that having educators of color in the classroom can lead to:
Improved academic performance and test scores for students of color
Increased graduation rates
Reduced absenteeism
Higher aspirations for college attendance
By cultivating a diverse educator landscape, Re-Imagine Education is not just transforming classrooms, but investing in the future. We are building a stronger education system that empowers all students to thrive.