Project REACH | Cyber.org

While the nation faces a growing need to fill a gap in cyber-workforce shortages, there is a greater need for the nation to address the lack of diversity seen in cyber professions.

Project REACH (Realizing Equitable Access to Cybersecurity in High School) is a feeder program that connects K12 schools to HBCU cybersecurity and computer science programs in an effort to close the diversity gap in cybersecurity. CYBER.ORG facilitates the relationship between high school classrooms and their local HBCU through cybersecurity activities, classroom support, campus visits, and more.

CISA

Funded by Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA)

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Why you should major in cybersecurity - Project REACH

The Approach

Relevant Coursework

Activities are developed to thoughtfully connect African American and Black students to cyber careers

Empowered Teachers

Participating K-12 schools are provided with ongoing, tailored cybersecurity professional development for their teachers.

Invested Students

Prospective students build a relationship with HBCUs, envisioning campus life and getting a glimpse of HBCU school spirit.

The Right Connections

CYBER.ORG facilitates programming between K-12 and HBCUs with collaboration from cybersecurity professionals.

Hear from Project REACH Schools

Mr. Joseph Rossum

High School Teacher

“Not only has Project REACH allowed my students to garner a new perspective on technology, but it has also increased their social capital by letting them attend organized field trips and seminars about starting careers in the Cyber industry.”

Dr. Matthew Mitchell

High School Principal

“The transition to college can be daunting for high school students. Through Project REACH, our students are getting familiar with an HBCU in our region and starting to envision their futures as cybersecurity students. We love seeing their confidence and curiosity grow!”

Mrs. Tia Young

High School Teacher

"The technology and professional development provided by Project REACH have really been a great asset to my class! My students that were a little hesitant are now excited to learn about cybersecurity."

Dr. Grady Smith

High School Principal

“We're seeing our students starting to think outside of the box and considering careers in cybersecurity. More importantly, Project REACH helps them see an attainable path to get there.”

Project REACH in Northwest Louisiana

A pilot program funded by National Security Agency (NSA) is active in Northwest Louisiana, serving Huntington High School, Southwood High School, and Woodlawn High School of Caddo Parish Public Schools. Course offerings are intended to raise students’ foundational and technical skills in cybersecurity and increase freshman enrollment in Grambling State University, specifically in cybersecurity.

Read the latest

High School Benefits

K12 teachers will have unlimited access to curricula and supportive classroom materials
Students can earn industry-based certification before graduating
Teachers can receive custom professional development
Participating schools are eligible to receive technology grants for cyber labs
High schools receive ongoing program facilitation from CYBER.ORG cyber education specialists

HBCU Benefits

HBCUs showcase their programs and degree opportunities to prospective students in the region
Partnerships with K12 high schools help build a steady stream of degree seekers
Students and faculty benefit from expanded community and service-learning opportunities
HBCU cybersecurity students are prepared for employment through research projects and internships

Want to Learn More?

Our team will be happy to answer any questions you may have about project REACH.

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