What's Happening?
The Galax school district in Virginia has launched a mentorship program called Primeros Pasos to address high dropout rates among English learners. The program pairs Hispanic college students from Virginia Tech with Hispanic high school students at risk
of not graduating. This initiative, led by Elizabeth Stringer-Nunley, has significantly reduced the dropout rate from 29% to 7% over two years. The program includes weekly Zoom meetings and monthly in-person activities to provide academic and personal support. The mentorship aims to offer students role models who share similar cultural and linguistic backgrounds, helping them envision a future that includes higher education or vocational opportunities.
Why It's Important?
This program is crucial as it addresses the educational challenges faced by English learners, a group that often experiences higher dropout rates due to economic pressures and cultural barriers. By providing mentorship from college students who have successfully navigated similar challenges, the program not only supports academic achievement but also fosters a sense of belonging and aspiration among students. This approach could serve as a model for other districts facing similar challenges, highlighting the importance of culturally relevant mentorship in education.
What's Next?
The program is in its third cohort, and all students from the first two cohorts have graduated. The district plans to continue and possibly expand the program, depending on resources and outcomes. The success of Primeros Pasos may encourage other districts to adopt similar mentorship models, potentially leading to broader educational reforms that prioritize support for at-risk students.
