The Lasallian Resource Center (LRC) facilitates the availability of a wide-ranging array of Lasallian resources for members of the Lasallian educational community and the general public. The LRC creates, collects, promotes and distributes Lasallian formation and educational resources that:
- heighten general awareness of the rich traditions of Saint John Baptist de La Salle and Lasallian institutions,
- empower Lasallian educators and leaders to exercise responsibility for the Lasallian formation of those entrusted to their care, and
- advance and support innovative means and methods of Lasallian formation.
Saint John Baptist de La Salle
Saint John Baptist de La Salle, the patron saint of all teachers, founded of the Institute of the Brothers of the Christian Schools (De La Salle Christian Brothers) in 17th century France. Using innovative teaching methods, they established schools accessible to all students, regardless of their ability to pay. A pioneer in education, De La Salle popularized teaching students practical subjects, religion, reading and writing in their native language instead of Latin, and organizing classroom management in the most efficient and student-centered means possible at the time. One of his most unique innovations to education was establishing a community of educators engaged in the ministry of teaching.
The Lasallian mission embodies the vision and innovative spirit of the Founder. It is centered around Catholic values, personal relationships, and academic excellence. Today, Brothers and Lasallian Partners work together and by association to create inclusive communities where transformative experiences are provided that are innovative and holistic. Approximately 3,100 Brothers and 104,600 Partners serve more than 1,066,000 students in about 1,100 educational ministries in 79 countries.
In the Lasallian Region of North America (RELAN), our mission serves more than 76,900 people through a network of seven colleges/universities, 65 secondary, middle and elementary schools, and other ministries, which total 27 and include youth and family services programs, educational centers, retreat centers, summer camps and support ministries. Lasallian education in RELAN continues to innovate in responding to the needs of those on the peripheries, including offering services to disadvantaged youth and providing generous scholarships, academic and personal support, and specialized programs for students in need. Included are San Miguel Schools, a model of non-tuition driven schools that serve students from families of limited financial means.
