Fair Schools can help all students access the transformative education experience that will prepare them for the future.
School system leaders aim to foster transformative learning experiences for all students, especially those who are most marginalized. Despite their aspirations, the goals aren’t often realized in classrooms. But with the support of Fair Schools, concrete goals can be achieved.
Fair Schools improves student educational experiences by changing the power dynamics and relationships between students, families, and educators. We use three key levers:
healing-centered learning environments;
standards-aligned affirming curriculum and instruction; and
community engagement systems that build partnerships.
Values
EQUITY
We believe all students can achieve and live their best lives. It is our job as educators to create the conditions to make that happen for all students regardless of their background.
EMPATHY
We must do our work in partnership with communities and educators. That means we must listen and understand first, before acting.
RESEARCH
We root all of our ideas in research so that we are giving students the best educational experience. We are constantly learning ways to reach and affirm all students.
Continuous Improvement
Create and implement feedback and data systems to understand the impact on student learning, school climate, and the experience of students and families.
Strategy Implementation
Through professional learning, coaching, data analysis, and organizing, work with school leaders to build their capacity to implement the strategy in partnership with students, families, and staff.
Fair Schools Strategy
Create a Common Understanding of the Learning Conditions
Support school leaders with identifying a school’s core needs by conducting a diagnostic to collect data, including empathy interviews with educators, students and families. We always center students and community members from historically marginalized communities.
Develop an Implementation Plan
Develop a strategy that establishes structures rooted in standards based curriculum, responsive education, restorative justice, social emotional supports, and meaningful family/community engagement, all while centering the context of the school and its surrounding communities.
The Ideas That Inspire Us
The Founder
Stephanie Frenel
Stephanie has been an educator for over fifteen years. A Black, queer, multilingual, first-generation American, she has a variety of experiences working with marginalized communities as a teacher, instructional coach, and principal. She has worked with districts and charters across the country and wants to help all educators partner with their communities to create thriving classrooms.