Let’s rewrite the rules.

Real change can’t stop at programs or projects — it has to reach the systems and policies that shape our lives. This requires understanding gaps between current policies and community needs. Together, we’re building a shared agenda that connects the dots across what’s happening within classrooms and communities — to remove barriers, align rules with reality, and make sure policy decisions reflect the needs and priorities of the people at the place of urgency. When we organize and advocate together, policy becomes a tool that enables community-driven solutions to take root and grow.

In Forsyth County in 2025, major gaps in education outcomes and opportunities hinder our community’s overall progress and profoundly affect the daily lives of children. Despite an abundance of programs and projects that benefit our kids, we’ve come to understand that piecemeal solutions to ‘fix’ education just aren’t enough. Real change requires a comprehensive approach to drive progress at every stage — from prenatal support for families, all the way through to career readiness and success.

Birth to Pre-K

Every mother, child, and family in Winston-Salem and Forsyth County deserves the foundation for lifelong wellbeing — beginning before birth and extending through high-quality early learning experiences.

Equitable Prenatal and Maternal Health

All mothers and families should have access to comprehensive, affordable prenatal and healthcare services. Our network is supporting projects led by Black mothers driving change in maternal and infant health, uplifting their leadership and lived expertise to shape community-driven policy and systems change.

Empowered, Culturally Responsive Early Educators

Childcare and Pre-K educators should be equipped and supported to deliver culturally responsive curriculum and to create environments that honor and celebrate community assets.

K-12 Education

Every young person in Winston-Salem and Forsyth County deserves access to high-quality learning environments that equip them to thrive — academically, socially, and emotionally — in every aspect of life.

Advancing Educational Equity and Accountability

We support policies that ensure every student — regardless of race, neighborhood, or income — has access to safe, well-resourced schools and culturally-affirming learning environments.

Centering Student and Family Voice in School Systems

We are elevating the experiences and leadership of students and families most impacted by inequities, driving advocacy rooted in community vision and lived experience.

Ending the School-to-Prison Pipeline

Schools, educators and SRO’s should be equipped to deliver culturally appropriate, trauma-informed, restorative and student-centered interventions that support the physical and mental well-being of every student in alignment with the Whole School, Whole Community, Whole Child model.

Ensure Effective Reading Instruction

Invest in professional development and implementation support to ensure teachers are equipped to deliver scientifically based reading instruction.

Success Beyond High School

All Winston-Salem Forsyth County Residents Deserve Access to Postsecondary Opportunities that Foster Positive Self-Worth and Financial Security.

Preparing Every Student for Post-Secondary Success

Ensure that every student has access to rigorous coursework that instill a belief of high expectations and confidence for all youth.

Increasing Access and Participation to Dual Enrollment Courses

Every student should receive academic and career counseling that promotes and supports opportunities to enroll in Dual Enrollment Courses by addressing barriers such as transportation or broadband access.

Equitable Funding for Post-Secondary Attainment

We support policies that ensure increased access to funding sources – financial aid, grants, apprenticeships, etc. – that support enrollment and completion of post-secondary degrees or certification for every student.