The Institute for Urban Education showcases impressive industry and retention statistics

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Dana Reel and Nancy Reel (B.A. ’77) are both Kansas City natives, with Nancy graduating from UMKC with a degree in elementary education. The Reels came in contact with the UMKC Foundation in 2015 when they first established a scholarship in the then College of Arts and Sciences, now School of Humanities and Social Sciences, in honor of Dana’s sister and brother-in-law who attended UMKC.

The couple learned about the Institute for Urban Education, commonly called IUE, a program dedicated to supporting educators in historically underserved schools in urban communities, through their communications with the university when they expressed a desire to expand their giving.

The Reels wanted to provide more opportunities to underrepresented populations in Kansas City and were incredibly inspired by the IUE. They were impressed with the program’s leadership, mission and achievements.

“Hearing about the program for the first time was so refreshing,” Dana said. “I’ve never heard of a program as exceptional as the IUE. We went to one of their events and were so impressed with how it was structured. Every student and teacher we met were so excited and jazzed about their careers and they all had such good camaraderie.”

IUE scholars in the program not only receive a scholarship to support them during school, but also receive additional training focused on teaching in urban schools and are committed to teaching in Kansas City’s public schools for four years after graduation. The program also provides consistent guidance and support even after students start teaching full time.

Since its inception, the IUE has given Kansas City talented educators who are highly sought after: 100 % of the teachers who come from IUE who are certified have been hired. This impressive statistic has been true even in the years even before the teacher shortage.

“I’m constantly getting emails and phone calls from school principals and HR directors asking if we have any more IUE teachers,” said Jennifer Waddell, Ph.D., director of the IUE. “They tell me that first year IUE teachers are performing at the level of second- or even third-year teachers. It’s nice to hear that the intense preparation and opportunities we provide not only help them get their jobs, but they execute their jobs effectively as well.”

Having 100% of teachers hired isn’t the only impressive statistic the IUE has. The program also boasts extremely high retention rates.

“Our teachers’ retention rate is almost three times higher than the state’s,” Waddell said. “Currently, 91% of IUE graduates are still teaching or working in public education at the five-year mark. That is compared to a little less than 50% nationally and 34% in Missouri. On top of that, 100% of our students of color who are from urban communities, our core demographic for recruitment, are still teaching at the five-year mark.”

Those numbers left the Reels in awe of the program.

“I was a teacher myself,” Nancy shared. “I know that the turnover rates are extremely high in the industry and to have a program that is so supportive even when you graduate really does make a big difference. The teachers who come out of the IUE program stay in the profession for a long time, it’s very exciting and hopeful. I wish more programs like the IUE existed.”

The Reels explained that the IUE is a program they specifically give to because they are addressing problems that impact the education of Kansas City’s community and children. They expressed gratitude for their own education and wish to pay it forward.

“Kansas City is our home,” Dana said. “We want to make a positive and lasting impact here. Nancy and I are fortunate to be able to give financially, it’s truly a blessing. There is a huge need for scholarships and financial aid, and we are just happy to be involved and provide some opportunities.”

Waddell expressed how grateful the IUE is with their donors and contributors.

“They give us a reason to exist,” Waddell said. “Without the scholarships, we don’t have a way to support our students, and we cannot grow our enrollment, much less maintain it. Our students are unbelievable. The teachers they become are nothing short of exceptional and our team members are all here because our donors believe in the mission of the IUE. Their philanthropy and donations make our work possible and help us contribute to the educational landscape of Kansas City.”

The Reels shared their satisfaction with the program, especially when they attend events and see dedicated students who are excited about teaching express gratitude to their help.

“The schools that these teachers get placed in are extremely lucky,” Nancy said. “They have resources and support that other teachers don’t, and they also have more training because of the IUE. It’s wonderful because ultimately it all goes back to the kids in the classrooms.”

The couple said they hope their gift will have a ripple effect for years to come.

“I wouldn’t have gotten the job I got without the education I received,” Dana said. “The same goes for Nancy. Scholarships like ours help students focus on their studies. We understand it takes time to study and absorb the material; if we can lighten their financial load, it will only benefit their education and our community. They just need some to help move along, and we are more than happy to do so. We hope they’ll see that and be inspired to give back as part of their future too.”