2023 LEC Annual Report

Our Mission & Vision Mission

To create the necessary conditions for the advancement of Latinx youth.

Vision

A future where every Latinx student has the opportunity to improve their quality of life and become leaders.

Content

Our Vision & Mission

CEO Message

Strategic Plan Update

Meet the Team

2023

2023

CEO Message

As we reflect on the past year, the LEC has made significant strides in our mission to empower and elevate the Latino community within the educational landscape. Our journey, driven by a commitment to representation, equity, and empowerment, has been both challenging and rewarding.

In 2023, we expanded our mission to not only increase the representation of Latinx educators but also to create the necessary conditions for the advancement of Latino youth. This holistic approach has allowed us to address the intersecting needs of our community, ensuring that our impact is both deep and far-reaching.

Our strategic objectives have been focused on growing the representation and support for Latino educators, strengthening home and school partnerships, increasing Latino student empowerment, and building allies for Latino student outcomes. These objectives have guided our efforts and initiatives throughout the year.

Some of our key achievements include offering professional development and coaching to 470 educators, adding new educators to our Futuro program, launching the EducaTec digital skills training program for parents and caregivers, and engaging with 438 students to inspire careers in education. These efforts have been complemented by strategic partnerships that amplify our impact and extend our reach.

As we move forward, we remain committed to our updated mission and strategic objectives. The challenges ahead are significant, but with the continued support of our community, partners, and allies, we are confident in our ability to create a more equitable, inclusive, and empowering educational landscape for all.

Thank you for your unwavering support and dedication to our mission. Together, we are making a difference in the lives of countless individuals and communities.

Respectfully,

Edgar Palacios

The Latinx Education Collaborative (LEC) is a pioneering organization dedicated to transforming the educational landscape for Latino youth in the Midwest. Since its inception in 2018, the LEC has focused on increasing Latino representation among educators, believing deeply in the power of representation to inspire student success. Beyond this, the LEC works relentlessly to address systemic barriers and promote educational equity through advocacy, mentorship, and community-building initiatives. With a mission to create opportunities and nurture dreams, the LEC’s comprehensive approach aims at empowering not only educators but also students, families, and communities to foster a more inclusive, equitable educational environment.

2024 - 2025 STRATEGIC PLAN UPDATE

MISSION EXPANSION

From “Increasing the Representation of Latinx Educators in K-12” to “Creating the Necessary Conditions for the Advancement of Latino Youth”

The LEC has expanded its mission from focusing solely on increasing the representation of Latinx educators in K-12 settings to a more comprehensive goal of creating the necessary conditions for the advancement of Latino youth.

Strategic Objectives

Over the last 5 years, the LEC has recognized the need for a broader and more inclusive approach to fulfilling its mission. While initially dedicated to increasing the representation of Latinx educators in K-12 settings, the organization came to understand that true educational equity and empowerment require addressing myriad factors beyond just staffing demographics. Through extensive community engagement and reflection, the LEC realized the importance of creating comprehensive

• Increase the representation and retention of Latinx educators, leading to more diverse and culturally responsive educational environments that benefit all students.

• Cultivate strong partnerships between Latino parents/caregivers and schools, ensuring a greater impact on students’ academic success, well-being, and overall educational experience.

• Empower Latinx students to become self-advocates, enhancing their confidence, agency, and ability to navigate educational systems successfully.

• Identify and equip allies with a solid understanding of the unique needs and experiences of Latino students, contributing/fostering an inclusive and equitable educational environment.

support systems that encompass academic, social, and cultural dimensions to truly uplift Latino youth. This shift represents a commitment to fostering environments where young Latinos not only have access to diverse role models but also thrive academically, socially, and personally. By embracing this expanded mission, the LEC claims to catalyze systemic change and empower future generations of Latino leaders.

Intended Outcomes

Through the implementation of this updated theory of change, the LEC aims to create a transformative impact on the educational landscape by increasing the representation of Latino educators, enhancing parental engagement, empowering Latino students, and fostering the support of allies. This collective effort will contribute to a more inclusive and equitable educational system, where Latino students can thrive, succeed, and reach their full potential.

• Increased representation of Latino educators in educational institutions, improved retention rates, and enhanced diversity within the teaching workforce, improved Latino academic outcomes.

• Increased levels of parental involvement, active participation in school activities, improved student academic outcomes, and strong home-school relationships.

• Enhanced self-advocacy skills, increased confidence, active participation in decision-making, and improved educational experiences for Latinx students, e.g. higher graduation rates, more access to opportunities.

• Increased awareness of Latinx student needs and experiences, active support, investment and advocacy from Allies, and the creation of inclusive and equitable educational environments.

Meet The Team

Launched the organization in 2018 after noticing the large discrepancy between Latino educators and Latino students

Founder CEO Deputy Director VP, Pipeline Programs

Dr. Uzziel Pecina

Led the first annual Teacher Pinning Ceremony to celebrate the first cohort of Futuro Educators

Understands first-hand the challenges and opportunities Latino educators face and manages the organizational priorities

Iván Ramirez

Director of Community Engagement

In charge of creating and developing partnerships that support Latino educators, students, and families including the Expresión Storytelling Fellowship with Storytellers for Change

Edgar J. Palacios

Susana Elizarraraz

Launched EducaTec, a digital literacy program designed to connect and equip Spanishspeaking families to the necessary tools to engage with their children’s schools

Responsible for the storytelling of the organization

Works to develop ongoing programming for artists, entrepreneurs, and civic leaders that support the development of Latino youth.

Supports EducaTec and video storytelling efforts

Erika Garcia Reyes

Deanna Muñoz

Lexie Rios

Sebastian Salvador

Director of Strategic Initiatives Civic Engagement Fellow Marketing Manager Program Assistant

EDUCATORS

We offered resources, including professional development and coaching, to 470 educators through both our in-person events and individualized oneon-one conversations.

SUPPORTING

470 EDUCATORS

NEW FUTUROS

6 PERSON COHORT

2023 Impact

Futuros Program

Committed to addressing the critical need for increased representation of Latino educators within the greater Kansas City metropolitan area, the LEC set an ambitious goal to add 50 new Latinx educators to the teacher pipeline by December 2027. In 2023, the LEC added 6 new educators into is Futuro program cohort. Our approach is not merely to establish an independent pipeline but to actively contribute to a collective impact effort across the Kansas City community, addressing systemic barriers and creating a more seamless pathway for Latino individuals pursuing careers in education. With a commitment to sustainability and replicability, the LEC continues to refine and expand the Futuros Program, laying the groundwork for a brighter and more inclusive future in education.

Futuros Cohort

Lizeth Rosas

Daniel Garcia-Roman

Karine Neira

Dianna Izaula

Angela Fuentes

Tanya Martinez

Expresión

Expresión is a storytelling fellowship program that stands as a signature initiative for the LEC in partnership with Storytellers for Change. Expresión’s purpose is to empower Latino educators to imagine, craft, and share stories that contribute to building an equitable education system. At its core, Expresión aims to activate a community of Latino educators as Cultural Organizers, leveraging storytelling as a tool for advocacy and the realization of equitable educational environments. The program operates on a theory of change centered on narrative transformation, highlighting the pivotal role of Latino educators as storytellers in fostering positive identity development and cultivating healing-centered frameworks within educational spaces. Through these endeavors, Expresión aims to amplify the voices of Latino educators, effecting systemic change within the education sector and beyond.

“I don’t have a lot of people in my community that are Latinx educators so I feel less alone in this work. My presence in education feels validated. I feel supported when I speak my truth. I feel like an important part of this group.”

- Analaura Osorio Acord

Inaugural Partner Sites

El Centro, Inc. (Kansas City, KS) (Olathe, KS)

Lykins Neighborhood Association (Kansas City, MO)

Shawnee Mission School DistrictCenter for Academic Achievement (Overland Park, KS)

St. John Francis Regis Parish (Raytown, MO)

2023 Impact

EducaTec

In collaboration with Revolución Educativa, an organization dedicated to empowering the Latino community through sustained collective action, the LEC proudly introduced EducaTec. This Spanish-language digital skills training program is designed to empower families within our community by enhancing their proficiency in using various apps and programs crucial for communication and access in today’s digital age. EducaTec offers a comprehensive curriculum tailored to the specific needs of our participants. To ensure accessibility, we provide a welcoming environment for families and offer childcare services so parents can fully engage in the training. EducaTec exemplifies our commitment to fostering digital literacy and improving communication and advocacy efforts for the families we serve.

PARENTS & CAREGIVERS

In

107

GRADUATES

All of our parent-facing events include childcare and food.

2023, the LEC graduated 107 participants from EducaTec.

“I feel more useful in my life. I have a great desire to learn and make my children feel proud of what their mother can do. I have ADHD, and it is very difficult for me. It is a very interesting challenge in my life that impacted my entire family. They never imagined that I would be in a class.

Thank you very much for the program and support to the Latino community.”

- Magaly Hernández

Literacy Council

The Literacy Council stands as a cornerstone program dedicated to fostering literacy and educational empowerment within communities. As an integral initiative, the Literacy Council operates in partnership with Turn the Page KC, harnessing collective expertise and resources to promote literacy initiatives. Through monthly meetings and collaborative engagements, the Literacy Council provides a platform for parent members to actively participate in discussions surrounding the multifaceted concept of literacy. These discussions delve beyond traditional definitions, encompassing not only reading and writing skills but also language proficiency, comprehension, and equitable access to quality education. The council serves as a forum for parents to articulate their aspirations for their children’s educational journey, advocating for inclusive learning environments that prioritize every child’s right to a fair and enriching education, regardless of socioeconomic status or background. Moreover, the Literacy Council underscores the vital role of parental involvement in nurturing children’s literacy skills, emphasizing the importance of access to educational resources and fostering a culture of reading within the home environment. By championing literacy as a fundamental pillar of educational equity and empowerment, the Literacy Council embodies the LEC’s commitment to advancing educational opportunities and fostering a culture of lifelong learning within communities

STUDENTS

Promoted education as a career to

438 STUDENTS

Impact Academy with Guadalupe Centers High School

The LEC hosted students from the Early Escalera program at Guadalupe Centers High School for a panel discussion aimed at equipping high school freshmen with the tools and knowledge to navigate their journey towards higher education and career excellence. From sharing personal career trajectories to imparting invaluable advice, panelists delved into pivotal topics ranging from essential skills in their respective fields to transformative milestones that shaped their careers.

Lowrider Bike Club Launch

The LEC launched a new chapter of the Lowrider Bike Club designed to teach leadership skills through the process of building lowrider bikes.

PARTNERS

Latino Arts Foundation

The LEC created a strategic partnership with the Latino Arts Foundation, led by Deanna Munoz. This collaboration marks a significant step forward in our mission to empower and uplift Latino youth in our community. By joining forces, we not only expand our program offerings but also deepen our commitment to educational excellence and artistic expression. Together, we aim to provide comprehensive support, addressing the diverse needs and interests of our youth. Through this partnership, we are confident that we will make a lasting impact, fostering a vibrant and thriving community where every young person has the opportunity to succeed and flourish.

Partnerships With Colleges & Universities

The LEC is increasing its engagement with colleges and universities to support the retention of Latino students, particularly those interested in becoming educators.

“Ottawa University prepares individuals for a life of significance and we could not do that without community partners like LEC. Together we ensure cultural representation and academic support are consistently offered to individuals seeking to earn their initial or advanced degree. We believe in LEC’s ability to recruit and retain educators as we work together to increase the representation of Hispanic leaders in education at all levels. Ottawa University is committed to supporting the mission and vision of LEC by providing professional development, educational programming, and overall support.”

- Dr. Kasey Johnson, School of Education Department Chair

Evolución 2023

Evolución 2023, our annual conference for Latino educators, reminded us that standing on the sidelines is not an option— our Latino educators and students deserve our immediate and unwavering attention. The urgency to uplift our Latino students has never been more glaring; every moment counts in our mission to provide unwavering support. At its core, Evolución 2023 champions the force of collaboration and empowerment. It has taught us that our collective strength knows no bounds; together, we can surmount any obstacle and breathe life into our shared dream of a brighter educational future. Through our united efforts, we can ensure that every student is equipped with the tools they need to flourish. Together, we possess the power to shape the trajectory of education and embolden the leaders of tomorrow.

MORE THAN

100 ATTENDEES

2023 Indy Latinx Educator Summit

The Indy Latinx Educator Convening, hosted in partnership with Enlace Academy, TEACH Indy, and The Mind Trust, brought together a group of dynamic presenters and passionate educators to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing Latinx students and educators in today’s education landscape. From sharing success stories and strategies for advocacy, to exploring the power of language and the importance of representation, the event provided a platform for authentic discussions and insights.

Participants left the event with a renewed sense of purpose and a deep commitment to creating inclusive and empowering environments that celebrate and uplift Latino culture and identity through storytelling. The event served as a powerful reminder of the healing nature of storytelling and the importance of the 3 C’s - connection, community, and collaboration.

32 ATTENDEES

Statement of Finances

Director’s Report

In the past fiscal year, LEC revenues reached $811,270. Funding enabled us to expand our programs, which accounted for 70% of our budget allocation. These programs are the heart of our mission, directly impacting the communities we serve. Additionally, we allocated 10% of our resources

to fundraising and marketing efforts, ensuring our message reaches a broader audience and securing continued support. The remaining 20% was dedicated to general administrative costs, allowing us to maintain operational efficiency and uphold our commitment to transparency and accountability. Through strategic financial management, we continue to maximize our impact, driving positive change and empowering those in need. PROGRAMS

$811,270

$635,216

20% 10%

FUNDRAISING & MARKETING %07

GENERAL ADMINISTRATIVE

FUNDING PARTNERS

Charles and Lynn Schusterman Family Foundation

City Fund

City of Kansas City, Missouri - BizCare

Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation

Francis Family Foundation

Google Fiber

Hall Family Foundation

Health Forward Foundation

Hispanic Federation / Hispanic Development Fund

School Smart KC

Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth

Terracon Foundation

The Hadley Project

The Mind Trust

Turn The Page KC

BOARD MEMBERS

Cecilia Belser-Patton

Irene Caudillo, Board Chair

Trinity Davis, PhD

Patrice Fenton, PhD

Allyson Hile

Debra Jenkins

Stephen Linkous

Kelly Ocasio, PhD

Robert Simmons III, EdD

Selina Rios

Tom Vander Ark

LATINX EDUCATOR ADVISORY BOARD

Josué Aguilar-Bautista

Anastasia Delgado

Laura Flores

Dr. Marta Silva Serrano

Daniel Velazquez