Innovate Public Schools is a power building organization dedicated to building the capacity of parents and families to organize, advocate, and demand high quality schools for their children.
We believe that the education system was not designed to serve all children, and that the biggest barrier to all children having access to an excellent school is a lack of political will to improve the system. We believe the voices and experiences of parents, families, and students should be elevated and centered in decisions about education.
Carmen Rodriguez with Sen. Portantino
Parent leader, Carmen Rodriguez visits Senator Anthony Portantino at CA State Capitol
Innovate builds power for a more equitable education system...
in key areas throughout California, at the State level and nationwide. Our flagship programming provides foundational understanding of community organizing and trains community organizations, school leaders and parents to take action for a more equitable education system. With a people-based research and policy approach, we equip parents, families and advocacy organizations with the data driven tools they need to advocate for better educational outcomes in local school districts.
Parent Leaders throughout California Organize for High Quality Education for Black & Brown Students. Read more in our latest Blog Entries.
LUCHA: A School with Parent Engagement at its Heart
At LUCHA elementary, a small public school in east San Jose, parents are not just welcome – they are deeply engaged in supporting their children’s education. That is little surprise given that it was parents who fought for the creation of the school 11 years ago. Those efforts paid off – as of 2012-13, LUCHA was identified as a “rising star,” one of a small number of Silicon Valley schools that are beating the odds for low-income students.
“Parents feel they have a voice here. They’re held accountable for doing their part to help their children succeed.” – Principal Kristin Burt, LUCHA school in San Jose
Cornerstone Academy: Pushing to Do More
“Excellent teachers” and a culture of high expectations are the keys to success at Cornerstone Academy Preparatory School in east San Jose, says the school’s founder. Cornerstone is a Silicon Valley school that is beating the odds for low-income students – serving a majority of high-need students and achieving high levels of academic performance. Learn how they do it!
Finally some good budget news for schools!
Last week, Governor Jerry Brown released the latest state budget projections showing that California will get $6.7 billion more in revenue than originally anticipated.
Parent Guide: What are the A-G Requirements?
Did you know it’s possible to graduate from high school, but not be eligible for a California state university? Find out what you need to know to stay on track!
Parent Guide: What is competency-based learning?
Some Bay Area schools, such as Summit Schools and San Jose Unified’s Burnett Middle School, are doing away with traditional grades and assessing students based on “competency.” Learn more about this innovation and how it’s being piloted.








