Washington, DC (February 4, 2009) – I could not be more delighted by today’s announcement of the intent to nominate Russlynn Ali as the assistant secretary for civil rights at the U.S. Department of Education. With this appointment, the Obama administration is sending a clear signal that they are focused like a laser on the achievement and opportunity gaps in America’s schools—gaps that we must close if our nation is ever to live up to the ideals upon which it was founded.

Russlynn’s commitment to educational equity and to the students too-often dismissed by others is unparalleled. Her intellectual leadership and steely determination will serve President Obama and the children of this country well.

Over the past eight years, she has built The EdTrust-West into one of the most respected advocacy and research groups in California—indeed, in the nation. While her colleagues on both coasts will miss her day-to-day presence, she has developed and led a team that is strong, able, and committed to continuing the important work of closing the gaps that separate low-income students and students of color from other young people.

Linda Murray, former superintendent of the San Jose Unified School District and a longtime advocate and change leader in California, has agreed to serve as acting director of The EdTrust–West while we undertake a search for Russlynn’s permanent replacement. Under Linda’s leadership, EdTrust–West will remain a driving force behind efforts to ensure that California’s schools work well for all of the state’s students.