The National Council of La Raza's (NCLR) Líderes Initiative is a national program designed to create opportunities for Latino youth that will elevate their influence as leaders in the United States.

Educators

This page was created to serve as a resource to educators. It includes information about NCLR's work in the education arena, as well as links to Lideres sponsored funding opportunities for students to further their education. Please be sure to subscribe to our newsletter, which includes additional resources and valuable information.

Overview

The Latino community consistently rates the education of its children as a top priority. Latino students have made progress over the past decade, but gaps along the educational pipeline still exist. In order to maximize impact, the National Council of La Raza (NCLR) focuses its investment in the areas of early childhood education and high school reform, where the disparity between Latinos and other groups is greatest. NCLR addresses the issue of education through a complementary, two-part approach that includes direct services to community-based organizations as well as advocacy for policy outcomes that will make the nation’s public school system more responsive to the needs of Latino children.

Secondary Education (SE) Programs

The secondary Education Programs are committed to improving high schools around the country so all students, especially some of those most at risk, are prepared for success in college and work. Targeting the unique needs of Latino and English Language Learner (ELL) students, the Secondary Education Programs work through a network of community-based charter schools and Early College High Schools. To learn more click here

Higher Education

A fast-growing population, Latinos represent 15.1% of the college-age population and 12% of all undergraduates in U.S. colleges and universities. Still, less than a quarter of Latino students ages 18 through 24 are enrolled in postsecondary degree-granting institutions, and Hispanics represent only 5% of graduate students. With more than half of all Hispanic college students attending Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs), two- and four-year institutions that have an enrollment in which at least 25% of students are Hispanic, HSIs serve an important role in educating the Latino To learn more click here

NCLR Sponsored Essay Contests

NCLR sponsors two annual essay contests. Please check the website for recent updates.

NCLR Allstate Líderes de Hoy National Essay Contest

NCLR Best Buy Emerging Latino Leaders Scholarship Program

National Essay Contest Scholarships

There are many other essay contest scholarship opportunities. Please check deadlines for each essay contest.

Scholarship Opportunities

Check out the Líderes Opportunities page to view new scholarships, fellowships, internships and job openings.

To become a member of the Líderes Network, please click here. When you become a member you receive regular notices of scholarships, local and campus activities, advocacy campaigns, networking receptions and other leadership development events.