In our blog series on equity, we’ve periodically featured the work of regional partners. These partners represent the seven regional hubs actively cultivating local learning networks, next gen school designs, and self-directed professional learning communities. In this edition, we allow our gaze to fall upon some bright and colorful blooms maturing in the Oakland ecosystem.

A seed is planted

Greg Klein is Senior Director of Innovation and Learning for the Rogers Family Foundation. Earlier this spring, he shared a vision for equity generated by the Oakland Unified School District (OUSD) and expressed in this Equity Pledge. “There’s a long history here. It’s uplifting…a kind of renewal unfolding,” he said.

In our conversation, Greg communicated respect and gratitude for the efforts of the National Equity Project—  a longtime local partner. He recalled his first exposure – many years ago as a middle school teacher –  to NEP’s leadership coaching approach. “It was one of the most powerful professional learning experiences of my professional career. That experience had a profound effect on how I view my work,” reflected Greg. “It shaped how and why I do what I do today.”