LAUSD Launches Mentorship Program for Black Students

The 5,000 Role Models of Excellence Project aims to prepare students for college and careers.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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The Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) has adopted a new mentorship program called the 5,000 Role Models of Excellence Project. The program, which is currently in 65 high schools and middle schools, is focused on supporting and empowering young Black men to succeed academically and personally. Through monthly meetings, students learn practical skills like how to tie a tie, as well as leadership development, social-emotional skills, and conflict resolution.

Why it matters

The 5,000 Role Models of Excellence Project was created decades ago to address disparities in Black student achievement. Even though the program was founded in 1993 in Miami, it has only been in LAUSD schools for a little over a year. The program aims to guide young men of color, helping them improve academically and personally, in a district where Black students have historically faced higher dropout and suspension rates.

The details

The program includes a necktie ceremony where mentors teach students how to tie a tie, as well as discussions on topics like dressing for success, cultural enrichment, and leadership skills. Students also explore areas like financial literacy, with the goal of helping them navigate the system and prepare for college and careers. The program has pushed some students out of their comfort zones, but they say it has been life-changing, providing a sense of community and support that many lack at home.

  • The 5,000 Role Models of Excellence Project was founded in 1993 in Miami.
  • The program has only been in LAUSD schools for a little over a year.

The players

5,000 Role Models of Excellence Project

A mentoring program guiding young men of color to help them improve academically and personally.

Foshay Learning Center

A school in the LAUSD where students participate in the 5,000 Role Models of Excellence Project.

Travis Brandy

The senior director of the Educational Transformation Office at LAUSD.

Jayden Hamilton

A student who has been in the program for about two years.

Michael Lawrence

A senior student who has been pushed out of his comfort zone by the program.

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What they’re saying

“Many of the young people don't know how to tie a tie and so that's the first skill.”

— Travis Brandy, Senior Director, Educational Transformation Office (cbsnews.com)

“It was a big accomplishment to me because I actually have a father. He's busy all the time, he works, because unlike others, I didn't come from such a high background and because of that, I didn't get to learn a lot of stuff that other kids were able to learn.”

— Jayden Hamilton, Student (cbsnews.com)

“I've learned to be in situations where I wasn't always going to be benefited, but I've learned to lead through discomfort, and even though I was uncomfortable in a certain situation, I've still learned to find my way, and I've learned to problem solve.”

— Michael Lawrence, Student (cbsnews.com)

What’s next

The program will be expanding to elementary schools soon and is open to all students.

The takeaway

The 5,000 Role Models of Excellence Project is providing a crucial support system for young Black men in the LAUSD, helping them develop the skills and confidence to succeed academically and personally. By addressing disparities in Black student achievement, the program is empowering students and setting them up for a brighter future.