Birmingham Foundation Hispanic Recruitment Initiative Increases Hispanic Enrollment

Currently, Hispanic students make up more than 30% of the enrollment in Boston public schools and barely 10% in the Boston Catholic schools. "Our hope is to bring the Hispanic Catholic figure up much higher," says Paul Birmingham. The CSF Coordinator for Hispanic Outreach, Erika Banwarth, will develop strategic community partnerships within the city of Boston among the schools, CSF and community organizations.

Under this new initiative, Ms. Banwarth, meets students and their families to discuss the program, eligibility and schools. Ms. Banwarth then introduces them to the schools and assists them as they proceed through the admissions process. Since October, 25 students have been accepted into the program, receiving partial scholarships.

The goal for the program is to add an additional 60 students in the 2009-10 school year. Through community outreach in parishes and community centers, Ms. Banwarth has met more than 90 potential candidates. "I am overwhelmed by the amount of enthusiasm and support from the community and parishes for this outreach initiative," says Ms. Banwarth.

Ms. Banwarth was previously the Admissions Director at North Cambridge Catholic High School where she increased applications by 300% in four years and helped plan and implement the transition of NCC into the Cristo Rey School model while also building strong networks within the Hispanic community.

For more information about the Birmingham Foundation Hispanic Recruitment Initiative, please contact Erika Banwarth at ebwarth@csfboston.org or 617-778-5981 ext 215.