Who We Are

Committed to advancing policies and practices to dismantle the racial and economic barriers embedded in California’s education system.

Equity-Driven • Data-Centered • Student-Focused

EdTrust-West is committed to advancing policies and practices to dismantle the racial and economic barriers embedded in the California education system. Through our research and advocacy, EdTrust-West improves racial equity in education, engages diverse communities dedicated to education equity and justice, and increases political and public will to build an education system where students of color and multilingual learners, especially those experiencing poverty, will thrive.

We envision a California where education equity is baked into every policy and practice decision and where students of color and multilingual learners, especially those experiencing poverty, are fully supported academically and affirmed in their school or college community and equipped to pursue any educational, career, and livelihood options they choose.

We prioritize students of color and multilingual learners, especially those experiencing poverty – including those from Black, Latinx, Asian, Pacific Islander, and Native American communities.
  1. Community: We partner with the community to elevate the experiences and voices of families, students, and educators.
  2. Equity: We support solutions that lead to equitable educational experiences and outcomes for students.
  3. Justice: We work to ensure that educational systems are fair.
  4. Trust: We believe those closest to the problem have the solutions.

Learn more about our education advocacy efforts by visiting our What We Do page.

History

EdTrust-West is the California-based office of the nationally recognized EdTrust headquartered in Washington D.C. EdTrust-West was founded in 2001 by Russlynn Ali, who led the organization until 2009 when she joined the Obama Administration as the Assistant Secretary for the Office of Civil Rights at the Department of Education.

Over the last 20 years, EdTrust-West has become known for its unapologetic focus on racial equity and educational justice. The organization has grown to meet the demand for strategic research and advocacy to improve equity at all levels of education. We have worked tirelessly to close opportunity gaps, provide critical resources for students of color, low-income communities, and English learners, and ensure every student has an opportunity to succeed in California’s schools and colleges.

Leading with Passion

Dr. Christopher J. Nellum, our Executive Director, guides the organization with a deeply personal perspective, drawing from his extensive experience as an educator, education researcher, and advocate. He recounts how his family instilled in him the imperative to challenge widely accepted assumptions about Black communities and individuals, emphasizing the ongoing commitment to drive for racial justice and equity.

For more information on what we hope to accomplish in the next chapter of EdTrust-West’s story, check out the videos below.