Education Groups Stand For Children Leadership Center and Education Equality Project to Join Forces

PORTLAND, Ore., Nov 15, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Portland, Oregon based Stand for Children Leadership Center (Stand) and New York City-based Education Equality Project (EEP) announce that they have permanently joined forces and are integrating their work to improve public schools and close the pervasive achievement gap that exists in too many American communities. 

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This partnership is driven by Stand and EEP's shared mission to ensure that all students graduate high school with the skills and opportunities they need to succeed.   

Dr. Michael Lomax, Co-Chair of the EEP Board of Directors and President and CEO of UNCF (United Negro College Fund), said, "Years ago, Stand for Children Leadership Center blazed a trail when it made community organizing and local movements the center of its program. EEP is now joining forces with Stand in order to make the greatest impact in communities of color. Their grassroots structure allows us to connect our leaders and advocates with community-based leaders and advocates, and to work together on policies that will improve graduation rates, transform schools and close the achievement gap."

The Education Equality Project pioneered the convening of diverse leaders to improve public education. Since its 2008 founding, EEP has organized events focused on finding a solution to the achievement gap, attracting leaders from communities of color, education experts, elected leaders and a community of over 70,000 individuals.

In 2010, Stand played a key role in facilitating landmark legislation and policy changes to improve public education in six states. Together, Stand and EEP will reach more communities and help more disadvantaged students graduate from high school ready for post-secondary education.

EEP board member John Legend has joined the Stand for Children Leadership Board of Directors, and board members Dr. Michael Lomax and Phil Handy have joined the Stand for Children, Inc. national Board of Directors. Leaders of both organizations are optimistic about the collaboration.

"I deeply respect the leadership of EEP's outstanding Board of Directors and the key contributions EEP has made in advancing the national debate about the urgent need to close our country's achievement gap. This work aligns powerfully with Stand for Children Leadership Center's commitment to change the odds for millions of children who are not receiving the quality education they deserve," said Eliza Leighton, Co-founder of Stand for Children and board chair, Stand for Children Leadership Center.

Jonah Edelman, CEO of Stand, said, "I'm thrilled that we're joining forces at a time of unprecedented opportunity. EEP and Stand for Children Leadership Center are sending a loud message about the importance of collaboration. Together, we can shape the national debate while building powerful state organizations that will make a profound impact for students, from the state capitol to the classroom."

About the Education Equality Project

EEP has convened leaders dedicated to improving the public education system. The organization has conducted forums at the Democratic and Republican National Conventions, established a fact base on our country's multiple achievement gaps (race/ethnicity, socioeconomic, and geographic), partnered with McKinsey & Co. on a study, "The Economic Impact of the Achievement Gap in America's Schools," and released research and policy recommendations on a range of education issues.

About Stand for Children Leadership Center

Stand for Children Leadership Center is among the nation's most impactful education organizations, working to engage a constituency of parents and educators. Stand expands public understanding of policies and investments that improve student achievement, and creates locally-led coalitions and partnerships with state and national education experts.  Please visit: www.stand.org/about

SOURCE Stand for Children Leadership Center