|
The Latino Education Institute’s mission, roots, and programs are firmly grounded in the belief that education creates opportunities. Our two decades of experience working with families and students to improve educational outcomes for culturally and linguistically diverse individuals has demonstrated that students can achieve remarkable accomplishments with support and culturally responsive approaches.
This progress will be rolled back with the Supreme Court decision nullifying race-conscious admissions in higher education. At stake is no less than the ability of Latine youth to pursue education at all levels and be their best selves. Latine youth are already underrepresented at every tier of higher education in Massachusetts, from community colleges to ivy league institutions. With this ruling the message for many Latine families may shift from "Sí, se puede" (Yes, We Can) to "Hasta aquí, no más" (Go No Further).
We are heartened by State efforts to look at income-based admission criteria and other responses to ameliorate negative outcomes. We stand ready to work with community-based partners, Worcester Public Schools, families, and Worcester colleges to step-up recruitment and college graduation rates within communities of color, who comprise over 73% of all WPS and are not equitably represented in our institutions of higher learning. With Latine youth approaching the majority of WPS students, we all benefit when students access opportunity.
María A. Juncos-Gautier, PhD
Executive Director
Latino Education Institute
| 
