Grow Your Own Illinois

Empowering Future Educators

Grow Your Own Illinois (GYO-IL) emerged from the collaborative efforts of two grassroots organizations in Chicago, dedicated to addressing the critical shortage of teachers in local schools. By training parents, particularly Black and Latina mothers, in classroom leadership roles, GYO-IL has successfully established a pathway for community members to become certified educators. Since the passage of the Grow Your Own Teacher Education Act in 2005, GYO-IL has expanded to 16 consortia sites across Illinois, focusing on recruiting and supporting racially diverse individuals to teach in hard-to-staff schools.

Making a Lasting Impact

In the past four fiscal years, GYO-IL has graduated nearly 200 teachers, directly addressing Illinois’ chronic teacher shortage and enhancing the racial diversity of the educator workforce.

Support the Future of Education

Your donation to Grow Your Own Illinois is vital for recruiting and training racially diverse teachers who uplift all children, especially students of color. Contributions provide essential financial support, mentorship, and resources, ensuring that future generations of students have educators who reflect their communities.

Join the Movement

Donate cryptocurrency or cash today to help Grow Your Own Illinois continue its mission of empowering diverse educators. Your support can change lives and shape the future of education in Illinois!