May 13, 2025, Washington, DC – The Institute for Educational Leadership (IEL) announces the launch of a National Action Commission, a new national collaborative designed to improve schools and communities by lifting up hyperlocal solutions and building systemic change, such as place-based, Community Schools, and whole-child strategies. IEL is uniquely positioned to lead the Commission and drive rapid impact through its reach of over 370 districts representing 11 million students, thousands of organizational partners across the country, 30+ state coalitions focused on these strategies, and over a dozen networks including 55,000 school, district, and community leaders.
The Commission brings together leaders across philanthropy, education, business, community organizations, and policy to elevate effective strategies, align resources, and guide investments in community-led solutions.
Led by Dr. Bernadine Futrell—IEL Senior Fellow and former Deputy Assistant Secretary at the U.S. Department of Education—the Commission will accelerate progress in communities nationwide. “The Commission exemplifies IEL’s commitment to collaboration and local leadership,” said Dr. Futrell. “It’s about building systems together that support every child, family, and community.”
“We are thrilled to have Dr. Futrell at the helm, leading the development of this essential action Commission,” noted Eddie Koen, President of IEL. “The Commission will be a catalyst to infuse resources and drive change in this critical moment. There are calls around the country for deepening collaboration and strengthening school-community partnerships in this rapidly changing environment.”
Additional details, including opportunities to engage with IEL’s National Action Commission, will be shared in summer 2025.