Center for Powerful Public Schools

CPPS' whole-child, whole-school, whole-community approach prioritizes Black and Brown children and families, understanding that by addressing the most pressing needs of these underrepresented individuals, all students will benefit. Through professional development for teachers and leadership, CPPS supports schools and districts in developing culturally responsive learning environments where everyone is seen, heard, and has the potential to thrive.

The Center builds the capacity of teachers and schools in high-need areas so they can better prepare student of color and low-income students to access rigorous education, opportunity pathways, and be college and/or career ready. By boosting social-emotional and culturally responsive practices, students realize their value, develop their strengths, and are prepared to fulfill their full post-secondary future. This whole-child approach is an essential step to building systemic educational equity in Los Angeles schools.

The Center’s work focuses on strengthening the capacity of teachers and school leaders, so they can better prepare students to reach their full potential in school, in postsecondary education, and in 21st-century careers, while closing the equity gaps existing for our most underserved students. By working directly with teachers and administrators, the Center empowers schools and school districts in Los Angeles County to improve education for public school students of color and those living in poverty, creating impactful system change.