Stories of Impact

Priya Sembi first attended school in West Contra Costa Unified. Now her students’ test scores in reading are improving across the board. “We’re not where we want to be, but we are taking one incremental step in the right direction,” she said.

Cassie Perham joined Chamberlin Education Foundation six months ago and is leading work on talent pipelines and informed community leadership. In this conversation, she shares what she has learned so far and what keeps her motivated in the work ahead.

The Chamberlin Education Foundation welcomed educators, school leaders, and community partners for an evening of connection, celebration, and the kind of support that keeps teachers in the district.

When visitors step into the Chamberlin Education Foundation office, they are now greeted by a mural that brings together student voices, vibrant colors, and community, reflecting the students, schools, and communities at the center of CEF's work.

Three West Contra Costa public school teachers share how they are using Gratitude Grant funding this year.

With flexible degree programs, personalized coaching, and targeted financial support, the initiative has already produced 11 graduates, with nine more on the way, all while keeping 100 percent of alumni working in the district.

Heath and Nelson embody a legacy of courageous, student-focused advocacy that defined Julie Wright.

Priscilla Zamora is CEF’s Grants and Operations Manager. If you are a teacher who has applied for a Gratitude Grant, a community partner, or a recipient of the Julie Wright Changemaker Award, she is the person behind the emails you received, the person responsible for ensuring the process runs smoothly.

Alton B. Nelson, Jr. is uniting schools to amplify family voice.