ENLACE
Engaging Latino Communities in Education (ENLACE), a program generously funded by The Children’s Trust, is an after-school and summer learning initiative supporting Miami-Dade County Public Schools (M-DCPS) students in grades 2–8. The program prioritizes learners who benefit from additional academic support, including students developing their literacy skills or facing barriers that may impact academic progress.
ENLACE offers a structured, nurturing environment where students engage in small group reading intervention, hands-on activities across science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM); literacy; digital learning; fitness and health; and social-emotional learning (SEL). Daily homework assistance reinforces classroom instruction and ensures students have access to the resources and guidance necessary for academic success.
The initiative currently serves Coral Park Elementary and Kendale Elementary, providing a blend of enrichment, skill-building, and personal development. During the summer, ENLACE expands to include enhanced opportunities for both elementary and middle school students, such as STEM career exploration that promotes early awareness of future educational and professional pathways.
In addition, ENLACE collaborates with the MDCPS through their annual Summer Youth Internship Program (SYIP). Through this partnership, high school students intern within the summer program, creating a rich, multi-level mentoring structure that supports younger learners and provides meaningful leadership experience for teens.
Overall, ENLACE is designed to be fun, supportive, and academically enriching. Its purpose is to help students grow, build confidence, and develop essential skills that contribute to long-term success in school and beyond.