Southern Education Foundation, Inc.

Overview

The Southern Education Foundation, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing equitable education policies and practices in the South. It focuses on improving educational opportunities for students from low-income families and students of color.

History

Established in the post-Civil War era, the Southern Education Foundation (SEF) evolved from the merger of several funds aimed at promoting education among newly freed Blacks and white Americans in the South. Key predecessors include the Peabody Education Fund (1867), Slater Fund (1882), and Jeanes Fund (also known as the Negro Rural School Fund). SEF played a pivotal role in training teachers for segregated classrooms and supporting historically Black colleges and universities. Notably, SEF served as a research facility and living quarters during studies for the landmark Brown v. Board of Education case.

Mission

SEF's mission is to ensure every student in the South, regardless of background, receives a high-quality education that propels them toward a life filled with opportunities. The organization believes education equity is essential to achieve fairness in the public education system. SEF envisions a world where race and income are no longer the most reliable predictors of student success.

Programs and Strategies

Core Program Areas

• Expanding Early Learning Opportunities: SEF works to increase access to quality early childhood education as a foundation for future academic success.
• Advancing Public Education: SEF supports policies and practices that improve public education systems across the South.
• Improving College Access and Completion: The organization focuses on enhancing higher education opportunities for low-income students and students of color.

Strategies

SEF executes five primary strategies:

1. Leveraging Knowledge: Establishing task forces and learning communities to advance solutions.
2. Testing Innovations: Conducting demonstrations and evaluations to shape policy.
3. Leadership Development: Building networks of leaders across the education continuum.
4. Research and Analysis: Providing timely solutions based on thorough analysis.
5. Partnerships and Advocacy: Strengthening advocates and policymakers through partnerships.

Equity Assistance Center (EAC-South)

Part of SEF, the EAC-South assists public schools in providing equitable opportunities for students in areas such as race, national origin, sex, and religion, as mandated by federal law.

Stances and Advocacy

SEF opposes public funding for private education initiatives, such as school vouchers and tax credit scholarship programs, arguing they do not benefit students academically and exacerbate inequities. The foundation has also criticized policies like the No Child Left Behind Act and "zero tolerance laws" for their potential to push more Black and brown students into the "school to prison pipeline."

Leadership

As of the last update, Raymond C. Pierce serves as the president and CEO of SEF, bringing extensive experience from roles in education policy and leadership.

Financials

SEF receives significant funding from grants and contributions. In recent years, it has reported substantial revenue and assets, utilizing these resources to execute its mission effectively.

Legacy and Impact

SEF has a long history of addressing educational disparities and advocating for systemic change. Through its commitment to equity and excellence in education, SEF continues to influence educational outcomes and policies in the South.