In Recognition of the 25th Anniversary of the White House Initiative On Educational Excellence for Hispanics

Floor Speech

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Mr. VARGAS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and commend the 25th anniversary of the White House Initiative on Educational Excellence for Hispanics. The initiative, established in 1990, has sought to address the educational disparities faced by the Hispanic community. This year, the White House launched the Bright Spots catalog to commemorate the initiative's success. This newly created resource honors organizations around the country significantly furthering the educational attainment of the Hispanic community.

While there are 230 programs included in the catalog, I would like to honor three organizations in California's 51 District: Barrio Logan College Institute, Reality Changers, and the San Ysidro Vanguard Education Foundation.
Barrio Logan College Institute, established in 2007, is a nonprofit working to provide disadvantaged students with the opportunity to attend college. The organization begins working with students in third grade and continues providing support and guidance throughout high school. Since its creation, 100 percent of its graduates have gone on to college.

Reality Changers was founded in 2001 in an attempt to better prepare disadvantaged Hispanic youth for college. By establishing various support systems and college readiness programs, the organization has seen 97 percent of its students become first generation college students.

San Ysidro Vanguard Education Foundation was created in 2012 to address the racial and ethnic disparities within the San Ysidro School District. The organization focuses on early learning, college access, Latino teacher recruitment, and STEM education.

Again, I would like to extend my admiration and sincere appreciation for all the work that these groups continue to do for our community.

BREAK IN TRANSCRIPT

Source