WEST SIDE CONNECT

What they do

In Its First Year, W.E.S.T. Side Connect Launched The EmpowerED Mirror Project, A Strategic Initiative to Recruit and Support Black and Pacific Islander Future Educators In Washington County. In Year One, We Successfully Recruited Seven Future Teachers, Laying The Foundation for A Long-term Solution to Oregons Critical Educator Diversity Gap. Oregon Currently Faces A Shortage of 10,000 Educators of Color, Leaving Students Without The Representation and Cultural Connection Needed for Equitable Education. The EmpowerED Mirror Project Works to Close This Gap By Mentoring, Guiding, and Advocating for Future Educators As They Navigate College Enrollment, Scholarships, and Systemic Barriers. This Year, We Focused On Recruitment and Foundational Support, Ensuring Each Participant is On A Clear Path to Becoming An Educator. In Future Years, We Will Expand to Strengthen Advocacy, Increase Placements, and Build Sustainable Pathways for Educators of Color In Oregon.