MEN OF COLOR IN EDUCATION PROGRAM

Introduction

The UMES Men of Color in Education Program is committed to tackling the critical issues of recruitment, retention, and development of educators of color. By offering state-recognized learning experiences, mentorship, professional development, and a variety of support services, the program aims to enhance the talent pool of educators of color. Our efforts focus on providing expertise and innovative solutions for both students and educators of color on the Eastern Shore and across Maryland. We actively disseminate information, develop cutting-edge programming, secure funding, and collaborate with key partners and stakeholders to drive meaningful change.

Programs and Initiatives

In a nation where ethnic and racial minorities now represent more than half of the student population in public schools, the teaching workforce remains predominantly white and female. The National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) highlights that only 20 percent of teachers are people of color, with a mere two percent being black men. This disparity underscores the urgency of our mission. Research consistently shows that students of color achieve significantly better academic outcomes when taught by educators who share their racial, ethnic, and gender identities. Additionally, all students benefit from exposure to diverse, high-quality teachers who maintain high academic expectations.

The UMES Men of Color in Education Program addresses these challenges through three core initiatives: the High School Teacher University program, the M.A.D.E Men University Cohort program, and the Man the Shore Educator Network.

This engaging 3-week summer institute offers high school students, particularly students of color, the opportunity to participate in early college dual enrollment courses in teacher preparation. The program includes a comprehensive campus experience with room and board, classroom observations, college admissions counseling, field trips, campus tours, and mentoring from accomplished teachers of color. Successful participants earn college credits and are eligible for the Hazel Scholarship, providing $1,500 per year. The program also offers paraprofessional certification support, professional and leadership development workshops, scholarship information, and pre-college teaching experience.

M.A.D.E Men is an innovative multi-year cohort that supports men of color majoring in teacher education through academic, social, and cultural initiatives. Cohort members live together,fostering a supportive community and deepening their understanding of the unique challengesand opportunities for male educators of color. The program provides teacher licensure support,ongoing advising, scholarship information, job placement assistance, early teaching field experiences, financial literacy training, and access to professional networks and affiliations. Additionally, students receive mentoring from accomplished male educators of color and engage in social and community outreach activities.

The UMES Men of Color in Education Program is dedicated to creating a diverse and inclusive teaching workforce that reflects the demographics of our student population and enhances educational outcomes for all.

This network brings together male educators of color on Maryland’s Eastern Shore to support each other professionally while focusing on recruitment, retention, and development. The network offers spaces for professional learning, growth, community engagement, and opportunities to showcase educational scholarship. Members benefit from access to educator networks, admissions counseling for advanced degree programs, coaching and feedback from recognized faculty, conferences, workshops, and pathways to advanced teaching certifications.