We are The CEI
We partner with school leaders, educators, families, and students to build high-performing schools in underserved communities—grounded in equity, driven by results, and focused on every child’s success.
- Organization overview
Transforming Education for 35 Years
Since 1989, CEI has helped shift school systems toward authentic, from-the-ground-up improvement—turning under-resourced schools into engines of opportunity and impact.
- schools served
- students impacted
- years of innovation
- Enrichment & programs
- Discover Our Work
Transforming Education Through Access and Innovation
01.
Our Vision
02.
Our Mission
03.
Our Impact
- Learn More
Our History
Every child deserves a quality education. Let’s make it happen.
Since 1989, the Center for Educational Innovation (CEI) has been at the forefront of transforming public education.
Our founding vision was bold: shift accountability from rigid bureaucracies to the schools themselves—putting power and possibility where they belong, in the hands of educators, students, and communities.
From day one, we focused on what matters most: equity, innovation, and real outcomes. Our work brings high-impact academic and enrichment programs to schools that need them most, fostering opportunity where systemic inequality has long prevailed.
Over the past three decades, CEI has supported over 2,200 schools and touched the lives of more than 1 million students. We believe schools are not just learning centers—they are the heartbeat of thriving communities. That’s why our programs are designed to do more than raise test scores: they cultivate leadership, amplify student voice, and unlock new pathways for lifelong success.
Our mission is far from over. Until every child—regardless of background—has access to a world-class education, we will continue to lead with purpose, innovate with heart, and fight for the future our students deserve.
Focus on Student Growth
We measure success by academic progress, social-emotional well-being, and readiness for the future.
Support for Educators
From coaching to professional learning, we equip teachers and leaders with tools that last.
Access at the Core
Our programs reduce barriers and expand access so every child has the chance to thrive.
testimonials
- Voices from the Classroom
“Through this program, I discovered that I am able to express my feelings best through art and use it as a way to address social issues.”
"Art brings math to life and makes a normally abstract subject tangible. The lesson plans provide ways to differentiate or modify if necessary and they are aligned specifically with the standards."
“Student engagement was at an all-time high during every lesson. They looked forward to the lessons and counted down the days until our big performance!”
“I have some students who said they love to paint and even developed skills they didn't have before. I did not know how to integrate music into our Spanish class, it was something that I did not see as possible and today I was able to understand that it is possible.”
“I'm thankful that a program like this exists where young people can learn about important issues in our world and feel encouraged to make a difference.”
- Our achievements
