LOS ANGELES (CNS) - Los Angeles Unified School District Superintendent Austin Beutner and a group of local community partners and foundations today announced the launch of a multimillion-dollar fund with an aim of improving student achievement and engaging the community.
The Fund for Equity and Excellence's initial funding of just over $3 million will be increased over time through the addition of other partners and increased commitments by the initial partners, LAUSD officials said. The initial funding partners include the Ballmer Group, California Community Foundation, California Endowment, The Eli and Edythe Broad Foundation and the Weingart Foundation.
``I am grateful for the support of the philanthropic community for public education in Los Angeles,” Beutner said. ``This is a tremendous step for Los Angeles and Los Angeles Unified. All of us are working together for the same common objective -- to make sure every child receives a great education.”
The LAUSD will use the fund to improve student attendance, close the opportunity gap for underserved students, increase high-quality learning opportunities for all students and better engage community, families, students and teachers, according to the school district.
``The success of public education relies on robust community and civic engagement. We wholeheartedly support and appreciate this fund, which is a great step forward to serve kids and families,” said Alberto Retana, CEO & president of Community Coalition.
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