Latino Education Projects
Purpose: The competitive strength of our region, state and country in a global economy depends, and will continue to depend to a large extent, on the positive educational outcomes of Latino students at all levels. While Latinos have emerged as the largest minority in the U.S. and Latino children form the largest demographic group in many of our public schools, Latino students:
- Attend schools with fewer resources;
- Continue to have some of the highest dropout rates (push out rates);
- Score among the lowest on achievement tests;
- Have low college enrollment and graduation rates.
As we represent a significant portion of our future strength, we must achieve a dramatic and powerful change in the future demographics of Latinos. For us to create a positive future it will require a Latino citizenry that is:
- Equipped to compete in a global economy;
- Part of a literate and well-educated labor and consumer base;
- A pool of linguistic and cultural talent that would serve to strengthen ties with Mexico and Latin America;
- Significant component of a highly productive work and business force that contributes to the tax base and therefore the economic well-being of the U.S.;
- Poised to participate and shape the U.S. political landscape through voting and civic engagement.