The Lasallian Teacher Immersion Program (LTIP) was instituted four years ago by the Midwest District and in collaboration with the three universities within the District: Christian Brothers University, Lewis University and Saint Mary’s University. After two years of research and development the LTIP was created to address the diminishing number of males entering the field of education, as well as the lack of qualified religion teachers in our Catholic schools. The program has two components: a college-credit immersion experience, and an immersion experience in Guatemala. The LTIP also provides the young men, particularly those interested in pursuing the life of a Christian Brother, the opportunity to live in community with the Brothers and Lasallian Volunteers. A current postulant with the Christian Brothers is an alum of the LTIP.
On Monday, September 8, the Presidents of the three Midwest District universities met at the Provincial Office in Burr Ridge, IL, to assess and evaluate the Lasallian Teacher Immersion Program. The meeting was facilitated by Brother Frank Carr, Visitor, Brother Larry Schatz, Auxiliary Visitor, and Brother Pat Conway, Director of LTIP and Vocations. In addition, the Deans of the Schools of Education, the Chairs of the Theology Departments, a Vice President for Academics, and students participated in the evaluation meeting.
A considerable amount of data from the past four years documenting the evolution and implementation of the LTIP was provided and discussed. One of the more moving sessions took place during a question and answer session at which the students shared how the program has impacted their lives.
In the end all three universities enthusiastically endorsed LTIP and will continue to collaborate in this exciting venture. Representatives from each of the three universities will gather in the fall of 2009 with Brother Pat to discuss revisions and funding in order to promote and secure the future of the program.
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