IRS designates the organization as a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization. Organization lands its first grant, compliments of Southern Partners Fund. Joined a national Rural Education Working Group through Rural School and Community Trust. Held regional conferences in southwest, north central, and central Arkansas. Published a white paper on impact of Omnibus Quality Education Act on disadvantaged schools.
Read MoreAdvocates for Community & Rural Education is incorporated in Arkansas. With assistance from Rural School & CommunityTrust, bylaws and application for tax-exempt status were submitted. Blocked passage of county-wide school districts in 2003, 2004, and 2005. Changed timeline for school districts in fiscal distress and removed capitol improvements as triggering fiscal distress.
Read MoreJoined broad coalition to enact an education reform agenda, resulting in funding for Pre-K, English Language Learners, Distance Learning, Incentives to teach in hard-to-staff schools, facilities, creation of Education Renewal Zones, and establishment of rigorous curriculum and accountability standards. Prioritized education funding as #1 priority.
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Founders Lavina Grandon and Dorothy Singleton unite with community members all over the state to form Save our Schools and fight school consolidation legislation, saving 175 school districts.
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