IDEA

We collaborate with students, educators, families, and communities to advocate and build capacity for education equity and racial justice. IDEA was founded in 2010 by educators, parents, and organizers who saw the need to change the narrative and practice of education towards learning that is relevant to young people and communities. A core belief was that the best way to effect widespread change

04/29/2026

In a Community School, what does real community engagement actually look like?

It looks like people showing up with intention. Not just once, but over and over again. Across students, families, educators, and partners.

At Lanier Jr Sr High School , that kind of engagement is everyday. You can’t miss it. It’s the heartbeat of the school. And it’s shaping what’s possible on campus and across the broader community.

From The Community Schools Chronicle, Issue 4: A Summer of Progress, A Year of Promise.

Read more stories from across Jackson’s Community Schools:
https://democraticeducation.org/the-community-schools-chronicle/

The Community Schools Chronicle is a storytelling project by IDEA in partnership with Jackson Public Schools.