Strategy 1: Increase the number of low-income children and children of color who are prepared for academic success in school through an investment in early learning experiences, parent involvement, and extended time spent learning

There is a growing body of evidence that makes the case for an aligned, coordinated pre-kindergarten through third grade system for children's learning and development. MCF is supporting efforts that can result in greater coordination and smoother transitions between grades and that enable students to have the appropriate social, emotional, and academic skills they need to succeed in the next grade.

MCF is also funding efforts to help parents fulfill their roles as a child’s first teacher. Low-income parents often require additional resources or knowledge to support their child's education. In addition, early research shows that incorporating more academic learning opportunities in after-school programs leads to educational benefits for students.

Grants made since the implementation of MCF's Strategic Plan:

Strategy 2: Increase the number of low-income students and students of color who access post-secondary education ready to succeed through an investment in student preparation, college access, and coordination of providers

A college degree increases the probability of being employed by nearly fifty percent and multiplies expected earning potential. Without sufficient preparation through middle and high school, low-income students and students of color are more likely to need remedial coursework in post-secondary education than other populations and are less likely to pass those courses.

Major barriers to college access include lack of knowledge of college options, application processes, and financial aid alternatives. The Foundation is supporting a range of efforts to better prepare students to graduate from high school, attend college, and succeed once they’re there.

Grants made since the implementation of MCF's Strategic Plan:

Strategy 3: Improve educational outcomes of low-income students and students of color through an investment in the quality of low-performing public schools

Low-income students and students of color generally attend lower performing schools. There are proven, cost-effective models that transform these schools to ones that are either very high achieving or rapidly improving. Strong principal leadership, well supported teachers, involved parents, and a school culture of high expectations that all students will achieve are elements found in quality schools. The Foundation—working closely with local educators—has identified specific schools where we hope to reverse some of these conditions and create models that could be replicated elsewhere in the county and beyond.

Grants made since the implementation of MCF's Strategic Plan: