I was so delighted to get the chance to have a meaningful conversation with journalist Kathryn Reed about the power of education. This article highlights the dire state of education today, and the importance of our work, and for standing strong during these times.
Read Full Article in the North Bay Business Journal
In this article—and as an organization—we have never equivocated in our belief in educational equity. For 44 years, we have strived for our students’ rights to access the critical guidance and resources they need to reach their full potential. As I say in the article, “Providing equitable opportunities in education isn’t just a moral imperative; it’s essential for the future strength and prosperity of our communities, economy and democracy.”
But today, we are facing a growing crisis. The dismantling and elimination of education services, policies, and programs at the federal level is trickling down to the most marginalized students in our local communities—including foster-youth, students with disabilities, and those from low-income backgrounds and communities of color. “One policy after another is eroding the basic educational rights that generations have fought to secure.”
That is precisely why the work of 10,000 Degrees is more important than ever before. This is also a call to action to stand in solidarity with our schools, local nonprofits and businesses, who are deeply committed to supporting students in their pursuit of education.
As I join my 10,000 Degrees colleagues and Board in strategically deploying our transformational $42M gift and mapping out our next Strategic Plan, our focus is clear: We want to set the stage for the next decade to ensure that 10,000 Degrees is there for our students—no matter what challenges arise—so they can graduate from college and go on to make positive change for their families, communities, and generations to come.
That has always been our promise, and still is today.
Thank you for entrusting us with this vital mission. We could not meet this moment without your continued friendship, partnership, and generosity.
With deepest gratitude,
Kim Mazzuca
President & CEO