Public Education Network

The Public Education Network (PEN) is a national network comprised of a National Office, 76 Local Education Funds (LEFs) and individuals working to advance public school reform in low-income communities across the country. Originally founded in 1983 by the Ford Foundation to address the public education crisis surfaced by “A Nation at Risk,” LEFs are unique education reform organizations with deep on-the-ground relationships with both public schools/districts and community stakeholders across the country. PEN leverages its broad base of LEF members to: 1) research how to increase student achievement, 2) advocate for public and policy support, and 3) develop and scale innovative strategies that improve student outcomes within the public education system. Based in Washington, D.C., the National Office plays a critical role in representing the combined work of LEFs, interpreting LEF roles and performance, and acting as the broader voice of PEN. In 2008, PEN’s Board recognized the need to develop a strategic plan the following common goals: • To increase the rate at which low-income students and minority students graduate from public schools ready for college and a career; and • To help community stakeholders achieve and sustain a permanent commitment to fulfilling a community’s fundamental obligation to provide quality public education for all children.