Not all students have the opportunity to receive the education they need and deserve.
And our kids and communities need more leaders who believe this is a solvable problem and who will fight for them.
That’s why we have made it our mission to inspire and support Leadership for Educational Equity (LEE) members to engage civically within their communities to end the injustice of inequity.
We’re making a bet on leadership.
We understand there’s no single set of solutions that will work for every community. That’s why we aim to inspire and support our members to work for change that reflects and responds to the needs their communities.
We believe that when our members are organized and reach positions of leadership, they’ll serve as a transformative force for students, communities and the broader movement for educational equity.
And every child in every community across the nation will have the opportunity to attain an excellent education.
Investing in Leaders
LEE’s leadership development programming is designed to maximize the effectiveness of members working on behalf of children in communities nationwide.
We develop leaders who are:
Visionary. Members have a clear and compelling long-term vision for the impact they want to have with students and families on educational equity. This vision is informed by their direct experience in the classroom and community, and members can communicate it in a way that inspires tangible action.
Strategic. Members are committed to long-term, systemic progress and work pragmatically towards their vision. They make critical decisions and address challenges in a way that reflects a sustained commitment to end educational inequity.
Community-driven. Members value the experiences and leadership of the students, families and communities they serve. They build power through relationships with diverse groups to foster a collective voice for change in their communities. Members also strive to deeply understand how systemic racial and economic barriers inform the opportunity gap in their communities, and actively seek occasions to lead with those most impacted by pervasive inequity.
Reflective and self-aware. Members examine their leadership experiences to leverage their strengths and address key areas of growth through ongoing reflection and development. Members also strive to better understand their identity and how it impacts their judgment and relationships in their work to dismantle historical and current forms of oppression.
Values-driven. Members have the confidence to take risks and make difficult decisions that are rooted in their values, vision for impact, long-term strategy and understanding of their communities. In the face of opposition, members draw on a deep conviction in what is best for students and families. They respect different perspectives and experiences and are willing to adjust their approach as necessary.
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Leadership for Educational Equity (LEE) members are part of a movement of leaders who share an enduring commitment to educational equity and a deep belief in the potential of every child.
“We had an idea, the passion, and determination to support our immigrant community, and LEE helped provide guidance and samples to express and actualize our vision. The courses and support of LEE staff were helpful in providing necessary resources in the early stages of our venture."
"If no one speaks up, if no one writes the story, if no one asks the question, if no one testifies at the board meeting, or if no one confronts the legislator, students lose out and inequity wins.”