Students of color in Olathe set sights on future through mentorship program [Video]

OLATHE, Kan. — This Black History Month, Olathe Public Schools is making an effort to celebrate diversity.

Established in 2019, the district’s TEAM program is helping students connect with community leaders while showcasing the power diversity and representation holds.

“I really think that [TEAM] helps us out and teaches us why you don’t want to be the stereotype to everyone else,” said 15-year-old Emery Edwards, a student taking part in Olathe East High School’s TEAM program. “You just want to show them that you’re better than what they think you are.”

The goal is to teach, educate, achieve and mentor select students of color through monthly mentorship meetings. The meetings are led by Olathe staff members, community leaders and guest speakers. Students are encouraged to engage conversations about the future and what they can do now to prepare for what’s next.

“I think it’s important that they see a lots …