Less than 2% of the nation’s five million teachers are African American males. This initiative is designed to change that reality by equipping young men with the leadership, character, and maturity needed to excel as students and future educators. It creates a safe and supportive space where young men of color can engage in honest dialogue about the challenges they face, while building resilience, academic excellence, and social confidence. Through mentorship, skill development, and community connection, participants will cultivate a strong sense of identity and purpose—preparing them to become outstanding students, role models, and future leaders in the teaching profession.

• Recruit, mentor, and train a pipeline of male students of color within partnering school districts.
• Develop leadership, character, and maturity among young men to prepare them for academic and personal success.
• Close the achievement gap by increasing high school graduation rates of male students of color.
• Build a pool of trained tutors and mentors who will serve in community after-school programs.
• Provide positive role models for other male students across partnering districts.
• Strengthen school–community linkages by creating opportunities for districts to engage with families and enhance student academic outcomes.