Our Turn

Dear Partners and Friends, As we bring this chapter of Our Turn to a close, we are holding on to two commitments we made when the decision to dissolve the organization was finalized. The last was to capture and codify the learnings and experiences from our 15-year journey, creating a resource that can continue to benefit others doing this crucial work. The result of this effort is A Legacy of Change. Think of it as a mixtape of memories, wisdom, and the relentless pursuit of education justice. It is accessible on mobile, but for the best experience, we recommend viewing it on desktop.

Dear Our Turn Community, It is with mixed emotions that we share today that after years of empowering young voices in education, Our Turn will be closing its doors. This decision reflects the challenging funding landscape in education, youth organizing, and the nonprofit sector. While this marks the end of a chapter, we are immensely proud of the foundation we've built to nurture young leaders of color and their allies in the fight for educational justice. Our commitment to centering young people in the pursuit of change remains unwavering. A Legacy of Impact Our Turn's legacy is one of transformation and unwavering dedication to educational equity. We are proud to have: Amplified marginalized youth voices, empowering them as leaders, Built a network of young changemakers dedicated to dismantling oppressive systems, Created programs fostering critical consciousness, leadership, and collective action, Championed policy changes for expanded access to quality education As Tati Martinez Alvarez eloquently shared, Our Turn equips students with the skills to turn ideas into impactful realities. This sentiment reflects the transformative power we've had on countless lives. Preserving Our Work To ensure our lessons and practices continue to benefit the community, we are: Creating a comprehensive report codifying our program work and insights, Hoping to host a virtual convening to celebrate and share knowledge, Archiving resources and materials for continued access. A Heartfelt Thank You We extend our deepest gratitude to our staff, volunteers, partners, funders, and most importantly, the young people at the heart of Our Turn. Your passion, courage, and commitment inspire us all. As Amelia Federico, our former CO Senior Organizing Fellow, expressed, Our Turn empowers individuals to impact change and disrupt outdated systems. While Our Turn's formal operations are ending, the seeds we've planted will continue to grow. We invite you to stay connected via LinkedIn. With gratitude and hope for the future, Kevin Ervin CEO, Our Turn

Jill is one of our fearless Board Members advocating for better for our youth. Join her, join us in building a brighter world!

Kevin Ervin, our new CEO shares our Reimagined and Reignited path forward and our vision for the future: a world filled with leaders who are capable and courageous enough to recognize and dismantle barriers so communities thrive. Join us as we #Reimagine the work we do and become #Reignited on the path forward. #DonateToday #YouthCentered #Leadership.

Congratulations to Cinthia, our Social Media & Storytelling Senior Fellow, on graduating from Lynn University in Boca Raton, FL! 🎓✨ Cinthia's senior quote, "Don't be afraid to give up the good to go for the great," reflects her ambition and courage to strive for excellence. Here's to your bright and promising future, Cinthia! #SeniorSpotlight #Graduation2024

Congratulations to Neev Seedani, our Social Media & Storytelling (Atlanta) Fellow, on graduating from Duluth High School in Duluth, GA! 🎓👏 Neev's senior quote, "Beauty in the struggle, ugliness in the success," captures his deep appreciation for resilience and growth. Wishing you all the best as you move forward, Neev! #SeniorSpotlight #Graduation2024

Teachers are calling for change, and their contracts could be the catalyst. According to a new survey, only 19% of teachers believe the profession is sustainable, and a mere 16% would recommend it to others. 'America’s education system is failing teachers and students,' highlights Evan Stone. The survey reveals teachers' overwhelming desire for more collaboration time, innovative teaching approaches, and the integration of emerging technologies like AI. Currently, teachers are asked to do too much with too little, leading to burnout and low morale. The rigid and outdated nature of many teacher contracts only exacerbates this issue. However, there are promising examples like Ravenswood City School District, where contracts have been redesigned to be more flexible and reflective of teachers' needs. These contracts include mechanisms for regular renegotiation and provisions for salary increases and career advancement. As Teacher Appreciation Month comes to a close, it’s crucial to elevate the voices of educators and engage them in designing the changes they seek. This is a call to action for districts and unions to rethink and innovate. By doing so, we can create a profession that is collaborative, dynamic, and sustainable, truly appreciating and empowering our teachers.

Congratulations to Annie Eilers, our Organizing (North Carolina) Fellow, on graduating from Providence High School in Charlotte, NC! 🎓✨ Annie's senior quote, "What is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?", perfectly encapsulates her adventurous spirit and passion for making a difference. Here's to an incredible journey ahead, Annie! #SeniorSpotlight #Graduation2024

Breaking barriers and making strides in academia! Yale University proudly announces Maurie McInnis as its 24th president, marking a significant moment in its history with the appointment of the first woman to permanently hold this esteemed position. In her statement, McInnis expresses eagerness to engage with the Yale community: "At the top of the list is to reconnect with those I know and to meet so many more of you. You make this university what it is." Her vision for Yale is inclusive and forward-thinking, emphasizing the importance of faculty, staff, and students in shaping its vibrant culture. #Yale #WomenInLeadership

Congratulations to Camryn Williams, our Organizing (Atlanta) Senior Fellow, on graduating from Emory University in Atlanta, GA! 🎓👏 Camryn's senior quote, "One step at a time," reflects her perseverance and determination in achieving her goals. Wishing you continued success as you take on the next chapter, Camryn! #SeniorSpotlight #GraduationCelebration