Forward Arkansas Unites Educators in ‘Celebration of Learning’
On April weeknights in the Arkansas Delta, families gathered after work and school at local elementary and high schools. These events were meaningful milestones – a celebration of progress in the Marvell-Elaine School District, a testament to the tireless efforts by educators committed to enhancing student outcomes.
At the heart of this progress was Forward Arkansas, a non-profit organization committed to improving the education landscape in the state. Established in 2015 by the Winthrop Rockefeller Foundation and Walton Family Foundation, Forward Arkansas works towards ensuring all Arkansas students have access to quality education and are prepared for the demands of today’s world.
Central to their strategy is fostering collective learning. Educators from schools across the Delta and Northwest Arkansas have been selected to constitute the inaugural LeARner Collective cohort. This collective aims to celebrate learning and plan for the next steps to scale innovative solutions. As part of this journey, educators gather to share successes and discuss challenges, reinforcing each other in their shared mission.
This collaborative approach aligns with Forward Arkansas’ core beliefs about the importance of professional learning for educator effectiveness. By creating a support system for educators, the organization is well-positioned to continue driving positive change in Arkansas schools.
Through initiatives like the LeARner Collective and its comprehensive ‘State of Education 2023 Report,’ Forward Arkansas continues to push the boundaries of education reform in the state. As our collective understanding of what quality education looks like evolves, there is hope that every Arkansas student will soon have the tools they need to thrive in the 21st-century economy.
As the educational landscape continues to shift, one thing is clear – the most effective change-making happens when educators, families, and communities come together. Forward Arkansas is at the forefront of this movement, fostering a future where every Arkansas student is empowered to succeed.
