The Center for Education Reform’s 20th Anniversary Celebration Sets New Agenda
Highlights National Education Poll, and Honors The Nation’s Leaders in Innovation
CER Press Release
Washington, DC
October 11, 2013
The Center for Education Reform (CER) announced Wednesday the results of its recent poll on The State of Education in America at its 20th Anniversary Conference and Gala (CERat20) in Washington, DC, where pioneers were honored for their exemplary leadership and extraordinary achievement in advancing education reform.
The conference included a series of panel discussions with some of the nation’s leading experts on topics concerning the contentious relationship between schools and teacher unions, gaining allies in the legislative process, best practices in innovation and the challenges facing the movement in minority communities.
“What we learned at Wednesday’s conference really puts a rubber stamp on the poll results that we released this week,” said CER Founder and President, Jeanne Allen. “Throughout the day, from various panelists we heard a reoccuring that parents today are no different than they were 20 years ago when we started this journey. They want quality educational options in their communities, and they want them now.”
Panelists also reflected on their own experiences in developing quality educational options for students, and what needs to happen at the grassroots level to create the next generation of reformers.
Following the announcement of the poll results at the conference was a black-tie awards gala, where William J. Bennett, Yvonne Chan, Barbara Dreyer, The Gleason Family Foundation, Deborah McGriff and Michael Moe were awarded the distinguished “EdReformies” for their ongoing work on behalf of students and parents.
CER Founder and President Jeanne Allen was also honored for her years of service, advocacy and achievement in advancing innovative reform. Earlier this year, Allen announced that she was stepping aside as president effective Nov. 1.
“Since Jeanne Allen started CER in 1993, the organization has brought a unique sensibility, focus and energy to America with its mission to bridge the gap between policy and practice,” said Kara Kerwin, CER Vice President of External Affairs and incoming President. “Jeanne has challenged us all to press on either by seeking office, opening a school, or by starting a grassroots revolution. We are charged with a bold new agenda to accelerate the pace of reform.”
To view highlights of CER’s 20th Anniversary Conference and Gala, visit www.staging.edreform.com. Also, see what’s trending for #CERat20 on Facebook and Twitter.
