Meyer Memorial Trust has historically been a very strong supporter and funder of public education and related programs. MMT expects to continue to be a leader in improving K-12 education in the state. The impact of the $25 million partnership with the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation to create the Oregon Small Schools Initiative (OSSI) has extended across the state. In fall 2007, more than 8% of all Oregon high school students are attending small schools. Through Foundations For A Better Oregon and Chalkboard Project, the Trust has played a critical role in bringing the education discussion to the forefront in Oregon and is now recognized as a credible player in education reform.
MMT plans to continue to support OSSI, as well as provide financial and human resources to Chalkboard Project to help it advance statewide policy discussions to and push for education reforms.
This initiative aims to raise graduation rates and college or work readiness for high school students across the state by continuing to support OSSI, including the Teaching and Learning Initiative. Additional funding needs will be identified and addressed as OSSI evolves and as evaluating results surface new priorities.
Continuing its relationship with Foundations For A Better Oregon and Chalkboard Project, the Trust will expand its commitment to public K-12 education across the state. There are several Chalkboard priorities that can benefit from private funding as they get off the ground, through pilot projects or incubating Oregon-specific programs that benefit from best practices around the country. Measures to explore to improve student achievement for all students in Oregon include:
