Confluence Conversations
Confluence Conversations is a podcast dedicated to fostering insightful discussions on education, community impact, and pressing societal issues. Through engaging conversations with educators, experts, and changemakers, we aim to inspire action, promote awareness, and drive meaningful dialogue on topics that matter. This podcast serves as a platform to amplify voices, share knowledge, and create a ripple effect of positive change within and beyond the Confluence Academy community.
Confluence Conversations
Strengthening the Teacher Pipeline: Saint Louis University’s StayTeachLead Initiative
Saint Louis University’s School of Education is deepening its commitment to preparing impactful urban educators through the new StayTeachLead Scholarship Program. This episode explores how the initiative strengthens the local teacher pipeline by partnering directly with St. Louis area schools to identify and support future educators.
Through StayTeachLead, partner schools nominate promising students to receive half-tuition scholarships—valued at more than $28,000 per year, with opportunities for additional aid. Over four years, each recipient may receive more than $100,000 in scholarship support, creating a powerful pathway into the teaching profession.
Led by Dean Gary Ritter and Ryan Wilson, the program reflects SLU’s mission to uplift communities, inspire the next generation of educators, and elevate teaching as a pathway to leadership and equity. This conversation breaks down the vision, impact, and promise of this transformational effort.
