We As One 26-27 Mentorship Program Information Session Recording

This is the recording of an Online Information Session about the 2026–2027 We As One Mentorship & Tuition Reimbursement Program. The session was recorded on Thursday, September 17, 6:00–7:00 p.m. Central Time. Program Background Across Minnesota, some Asian world language programs—including Chinese, Korean, and Japanese—are facing growing challenges such as declining enrollment, reduced instructional time, and program cuts. These changes also create significant challenges for the educators who teach these languages and cultures, many of whom work in small or isolated programs and have limited access to mentorship, professional development, and support as they navigate new career pathways. For example, according to a 2025 cross-state survey of K-12 Chinese World Language Programs in Minnesota, 77% respondents reported declining enrollment, 40% reported funding reductions, and several reported complete program eliminations. In response, We As One Education, with support from the Minnesota Department of Education’s Teacher Mentorship and Retention Grant (TMRG), is launching our We As One Asian Language Teacher Mentorship Coalition for the 2026–2027 school years to support Asian language educators with their career stability and program sustainability. What Does Our Program Offer? 1) Culturally Responsive Mentorship: Experienced Asian educators who have navigated additional licensure pathways and can provide relevant guidance and support. 2) Licensure Partnerships & Resources: Potential partnerships with university licensure programs and licensure workshops provided by PELSB. 3) Tuition Support: Up to $8,000 tuition reimbursement for eligible graduate coursework toward a first master’s degree or additional teaching licensure. 4) Professional Learning & Community: Affinity-based learning groups where Asian educators connect, learn from one another, and work together to strengthen Minnesota’s Asian language and culture programs. Want to Learn More? Go to: https://weasoneeducation.org/