(Orangeburg, SC) — South Carolina State University wants to get more black male teachers in the classroom, and thanks to a $90 thousand dollar grant donated to the university for their Call Me MiSTER program, they are one step closer to making it a reality. School officials say the grant will help them increase efforts to recruit and train black male teachers.
The University received the funds Monday from the Leveraging Innovation for Educator Excellence (Life2). With black men making up less than 2% of instructors currently teaching in South Carolina classrooms, Program Director Dr. Thelma Sojouner says it’s important for students to see these types of role models.
There is a tremendous need for children to see young men coming in and working in the schools. Thank you for what you’re doing here. I’m excited for what we are going to be able to do for you at South Carolina State.
Dr. Thelma Sojourner,Pprogram Director for Life2 Program
The program that was created back in 2000 in an effort to increase the number of black male teachers, it also provides area high schoolers with mentors that through the program will help them focus on personal growth, academic excellence, finance, self-awareness, self-esteem, black history, leadership, and advocacy. Since its inception, the program has expanded to 10 states.
Dr. Rashad Anderson, an associate professor of teacher education and campus director for SC State’s Call Me MiSTER program calls the program a revolutionary, life-changing experience.
