Latinx Initiative for Future Teachers

The LIFT program is open to all students consistent with state and federal law, the UC Nondiscrimination Statement and the Nondiscrimination Policy Statement for University of California Publications Regarding Student-Related Matters. 

UCSC’s Latinx Teacher Initiative for Future Teachers (LIFT) Project,  provides selected MA/C students with  financial support, mentorship, and enrichment events. In twelve months, LIFT Scholars earn both a Master of Arts in Education and a California preliminary teaching credential. LIFT Scholars receive a $2000 scholarship, reimbursement for some of the tests required to apply to a credential program, as well as a resonant mentor and a relevant local teacher who has experience supporting underserved communities, providing guidance and support in navigating both graduate school and first year teaching.

LIFT, funded by a US Department of Education Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI) Postbaccalaureate Opportunities for Hispanic Americans (PPOHA) grant, is central to the MA/Credential Program’s efforts to address existing racial and ethnic disparities between teachers in California and the students that they serve. This project was also created as a response to the ongoing teacher shortage in California, most severe in communities serving some of California’s highest need students.

Donations to the LIFT Program may be made here. Choose “Other Designation” and write in “Education Department LIFT Program.

LIFT Events

LIFT Scholars

Meet the 2024-2025 LIFT Scholars

Meet the 2023-2024 LIFT Scholars

Meet the 2022-2023 LIFT Scholars

Meet the 2021-2022 LIFT Scholars