1.
Increased Emerson involvement. Over the last few months
we have been meeting more frequently with current Emerson
parents, teachers and administrators. We have also been
attending Emerson’s site council meetings to obtain
an informed understanding of the schools budgets and programs.
It
is clear that more community involvement is desired and
would benefit the school. Over the next few months we will
be communicating specific ways you can get involved, whether
or not you have children attending Emerson.
2.
The Principal search. We continue to meet with community
stakeholders and educators to identify the best type of
transformation-oriented candidates for Emerson’s next
principal. Our local LAUSD District office has informed
us that Act4Education will participate in the selection
process, which will formally begin in June 2007.
3.
Strategies for change. We continue to increase our database
regarding successful transformations of public schools.
In early June we will be attending a Parent’s Summit
where we will determine how the many parent activist groups
around Los Angeles can apply pressure to LAUSD. Finally,
we are also exploring in greater depth the viability of
charter school strategies in the event that transformation
within our current schools is stymied.
4.
Our not-for-profit status. We are officially established
as a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization. We are now able
to accelerate our fundraising: individuals and corporations
who donate will now be able to deduct their donations from
their taxes. More details to follow.
5.
Your input encouraged. We will be holding a “Dialogue
with Act4Education” meeting in early June. This
meeting will be structured for those who are interested
in providing ideas, lending support or asking questions
regarding our near-term and long-term strategies. Stay tuned
for more details.
