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Learning First Alliance: Strengthening public schools for every child
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Welcome

The Learning First Alliance is a permanent partnership of 17 leading education associations with more than 10 million members dedicated to improving student learning in America's public schools. We share examples of success, encourage collaboration at every level, and work toward the continual and long-term improvement of public education based on solid research.

Our Goals
  • Public education is vital to America's democratic future and economic well-being
  • American public education must be strengthened to educate more children to higher levels than ever before in our history. Every child must have access to a public school that prepares students to participate in our democracy, as well as to lead satisfying and productive lives.
  • As those with the most significant roles in carrying out public education, LFA members can provide visionary leadership to shape its future.
In The Spotlight

1/20/10: Leading Education Organizations Urge Swift Reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act

Today, an Alliance of 17 national education associations representing over ten million parents, educators and policymakers called for swift reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act. “The Learning First Alliance strongly supports the reauthorization of ESEA in the current legislative session,” wrote Alliance Chair William Bushaw in a letter to President Obama and U.S. Education Secretary Arne Duncan. Read more...

1/20/10: New Designs for Learning: A Conversation with IDEO Founder David Kelley

David Kelley is a legend in technology and design circles. Decades ago, he founded a design firm that dreamed up the  computer mouse as we know it today. That firm has since evolved into IDEO, a global design company that has left its unique stamp on everything from consumer goods to social innovation. IDEO's work has probably touched your life in ways you don't even know. Read more...

1/15/10: A Conversation with Superintendent Chris Steinhauser

Long Beach Superintendent Chris Steinhauser describes his district's nearly 20-year journey to becoming a model urban education system. Read more...

1/5/10: "Carrots and Sticks Are So Last Century": A Conversation with Author Dan Pink

Best-selling author Dan Pink looks at current schemes for motivating teachers and students, and he finds them wanting. Read more...