As the idealocrat reformers search for a grassroots base, this coupling may be a more important development than the Sharpton-Klein show:
100 Black Men of America and EdisonLearning Partner to Advance Innovative Education Reform Organizations to Collaborate with School Districts and New Charter Schools Atlanta and New York – September 15, 2009-100 Black Men of America – one of the nation’s premier organizations mentoring, educating and empowering young people; and EdisonLearning – the leading public school innovator and partner for school districts and charter schools, have established a national strategic partnership to advance effective and pro-active approaches to learning and education. “100 Black Men of America and EdisonLearning share the belief that education is no longer just a stepping stone to opportunity and success – it is a necessary requirement,” said Albert Dotson, Jr., Chairman of 100 Black Men of America. “Our shared desire to see that every child in this country is provided a world class education to prepare them for the 21st century is the key goal of this unique and special partnership.” “We have come together to be a part of what President Obama has called ‘a new era of mutual responsibility in education’ – a time when innovation and reform are sorely needed,” said Jeff Wahl, President and Chief Executive Officer of EdisonLearning. “It is up to us, as citizens, to not only call for greater achievement and accountability in our educational system, but to do something about it.” Under the partnership, 100 Black Men of America’s local chapters throughout the country and EdisonLearning will explore innovative ways to reform education, including collaboration with school districts, leadership development programs, community-building, and the creation of traditional and virtual charter schools. These schools will incorporate the comprehensive, research-based EdisonLearningTM School Designs and online programs, as well as integrate the 100 Black Men’s long-established, and highly successful, student mentoring program. EdisonLearning currently partners with the 100 Black Men of Baton Rouge chapter on Capitol High Academy for Boys and Girls in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. “For a half-century, the 100 Black Men of America, through our Mentoring the 100 Way, have provided positive images for young people to emulate, as well as positive environments in which they are able grow and thrive. By extension, these same activities enable our youth to advance and achieve their educational goals,” Mr. Dotson said. “Further, our community relationships provide young people with role models so they can see first-hand what skills are required to become productive, contributing citizens.” 100 Black Men and EdisonLearning also will bring to the partnership their established background in community and educational leadership. ### 100 Black Men of America, Inc. began in New York in 1963 when a group of concerned African American men began to explore ways of improving conditions in their community. Today the organization has grown to over 106 chapters with more than 10,000 members who continue to strive to improve the quality of life in our communities and enhance the educational and economic opportunities for African Americans. 100 Black Men of America, Inc. has more than 100,000 youth participants annually in its mentoring and youth development programs. For more information, visit www.100blackmen.org. EdisonLearning is the nation’s leading public school innovator and partner for school districts and charter schools serving more than 350,000 children in 24 states and the United Kingdom. We work with school leaders and communities to provide solutions that inspire students to think, learn, and succeed – and prepare them to meet their full potential and the expectations of the 21st century workplace. For more information, visit www.edisonlearning.com/100blackmen.