Educator's Rising program expands beyond New Britain

October 7, 2020

New Britain High School implemented the Educators Rising program three years ago to include curriculum and training for potential teachers. More than 100 NBHS students have gone through the program.

"Since its inception in our school system, Educators Rising is doing what we expected – getting students of color interested in a career in education," said Rep. Sanchez. "By broadening it to more school districts, Educators Rising will help achieve our goal of having teachers reflect the makeup of students in their classrooms and lead to improved student achievement."

Statistics show that only 10% of new teachers are minorities compared to about 45% of their students being people of color. And studies suggest students of color do better when their teachers look like them. Educators Rising introduces minority students to the field of education by encouraging them to pursue a college degree in education and then returning to their communities to teach. The program also encourages the development and retention of educators of color in local school districts.

Because of New Britain's success, Educators Rising is being expanded to 10 districts, including Stamford, Hamden, Meriden, Hartford, New London, Danbury, New Haven, Waterbury and Windsor.