An EdConnect Story: What lit the fire for you?

Every parent wants the best education for their child, but in today's world, the choices available don’t always come with the information needed to make a sound decision. From public schools to private institutions, charter schools, homeschooling, and online learning, the range of school options can be overwhelming. So, why should parents care about school options for their child? One compelling reason is educational disparities.

In today's education system, significant disparities persist, perpetuating inequality among students. One glaring issue is the resource gap and advocacy helps make that issue top of mind for those who can make legislative change.

EdConnect supporter and thought-partner, Jessica Williams, recently sat down with us and shared how EdConnect lit her fire and fight for education advocacy.
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EdConnect: “What excited you most about EdConnect’s mission and work?”

​Jessica: “My fight just ignited…working with EdConnect and working with Danielle, I got to really see the educational disparities. I got to really see what is lacking in the education sector in Georgia and just the politics behind education. And it fueled me to not only make a change, but it also gave me the tools to know how to make that change and advocate on behalf of students and parents as well.”

EdConnect: “What are some of your fondest memories from your time with EdConnect?”

Jessica: “My favorite part of EdConnect was really being in the trenches. …. [With] EdConnect we really were in Greenbriar mall every Saturday, hitting it hard, talking to parents. Literally organizing over 500 parents in one summer and we really were going to schools…we were having these community meetings where we were teaching parents how to advocate. Those were my favorite moments – being with parents, being with grandparents and really being in the community and doing the work.”

​It was amazing to hear about Jessica’s passion for the mission. We hope that other parents and community members can join in! Acting to address and improve disparities requires concerted efforts in involvement, policy reform, equitable resource allocation, and culturally responsive teaching. Only through these measures can we hope to build an education system that provides equal opportunities for all students, regardless of their background.

Author, Tori Culbreth

EdConnect Parent