Project REACH


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.
Funded by Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA)

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.




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.
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