The core strategy of The Collaborative for Education Organizing (CEO) is to create a movement for change, led by parents, youth, and community organizing and advocacy nonprofits, and educators committed to doubling college-ready graduation rates in the District of Columbia.

Publication

This publication discusses the in depth the theories and strategies behind the work of CEO and its grantees to engage community in organizing for education reform, with the goal of increasing graduation rates and improving public education in the District of Columbia. Download our brochure HERE.

Background

Launched in spring 2007, CEO builds on long-standing work in the field of education reform undertaken through two funding collaboratives previously housed at The Community Foundation, The Washington Area Partnership for Immigrants and The Common Ground Fund. CEO advances The Community Foundation’s long-term goal of dramatically increasing opportunities for low-income children, youth, and adults to contribute to and benefit from our region’s prosperity. Working with the District of Columbia Public School System and District of Columbia Charter School students, our goal is to double the current college-ready graduation rate by 2011.

At the core of this approach is our belief that systemic organizing of low-income youth and families is an essential part of influencing public and charter school programs, as well as policies that impact the academic and social development of children of color. In addition, we believe that organizing is essential to ensuring that changes are implemented and sustained.

The Initiative is a collaborative effort of The Community Foundation and a coalition of other local and national funders dedicated to doubling the numbers of college ready graduates in The District.

About Our Partners

Learn more about the range of organizations and individuals working with us on this important initiative. MORE

Programs and Grants

CEO Hits Milestone

In the morning hours of Saturday, April 17, 2010, representative members of the Communities for Education Organizing, a coalition of nonprofit organizations representing DC youth, parents and community members, gathered in Freedom Plaza before entering the John A. Wilson Building for a special Saturday hearing to DC City Council of the Whole.  The Saturday hearing came at the request of Communities for Education Organizing members to ensure that community voices were included in the budget process because of work, school and other demands, most DC residents cannot attend the regularly scheduled hearing. 

To download the rest of the article click HERE

Check here for current and upcoming funding opportunities. MORE

Additional Resources

Read about other education-organizing initiatives regionally and across the country. MORE

For More Information