LEAF Receives National Funding to Diversify Education
[San Jose, CA] –[September 28th, 2023] —Latino Education Advancement Foundation (LEAF) announced today its inclusion in a distinguished national cohort of organizations focused on diversifying the education workforce. The organization has secured vital funding and support from NewSchools Venture Fund, a leading venture philanthropy that funds innovators who are building a better PK-12 education system.
NewSchools has generously invested $200,000 to support LEAF's ambitious initiative, the Familias Unidas del Este de San José Fellowship (FUES). FUES aims to advocate for equitable funding at the state level for schools in East San José, ensuring current under-resourced schools receive the same amount of funding as their more affluent counterparts in surrounding communities. Equitable funding is crucial to provide students with the same educational resources and opportunities. By advocating for equitable education in East San José, we can help students gain access to higher education, career preparation, and social and economic mobility.
Extensive research has demonstrated that more diversity in schools leads to improved outcomes for all students. Students of color, in particular, do better academically, have fewer disciplinary incidents, and experience more meaningful connections with educators who share their backgrounds, resulting in deeper learning experiences and higher graduation rates.
Despite the fact that over 50% of public school students identify as students of color, the current educator workforce does not adequately reflect this diversity, with teachers of color comprising just 20% of the profession.
In addition to the financial support, LEAF will benefit from NewSchools’ expertise, resources, and influential network. This partnership will bolster our capacity to drive meaningful change within the field of education.
In addition to funding, NewSchools provides management assistance and a national community of practice to support venture leaders and their success.
About LEAF
LEAF's mission is to improve outcomes for Latinx students and families in East San José by providing support services for college enrollment and persistence, preparing students and families through LEAF's career pathways program, and advocating for educational equity and systemic change. We believe that every low-income Latinx student is entitled to an equal opportunity to succeed in higher education and pursue the career of their choice to obtain social and economic mobility.
About NewSchools
NewSchools is a venture philanthropy that builds a better education system by connecting people, resources, and ideas. We bridge the gap between those with capital and those with the courage to put that capital to work on the frontlines of education. We believe that philanthropy can advance education in a more equitable, collaborative, and courageous way — and we’re proving it every day. Learn more at newschools.org.
