The Community Education Commission is a nonprofit created by the Detroit Mayor’s Office, with a core mission to break down barriers that prevent families and children from accessing quality schools in Detroit. Specifically, the CEC will work to:

• Break down transportation barriers that prevent families and children from accessing Detroit schools (ex: GOAL line)
• Build safe, high-quality afterschool programs for Detroit children
• Provide parents and families with information about schools in Detroit

The CEC’s Board of Directors consists of between 9 and 11 members, appointed by the Mayor of Detroit, who are focused on improving opportunities and outcomes for Detroit children.  Per the CEC’s bylaws, the board will include:

• One representative from DPSCD administration;
• One DPSCD teacher;
• One charter-school operator;
• One charter-school teacher;
• One representative from labor unions representing Detroit teachers; and
• At least one parent of a school-aged Detroit child

The CEC’s initial directors are:

• Monique Marks, Franklin Wright Settlements, Chair
• Dr. Nikolai Vitti, DPSCD Superintendent
• Tonya Allen, Skillman Foundation
• Marsha A. Lewis, DPSCD Teacher
• Ralph Bland, Charter Operator
• Rachel Ignagni, Charter Teacher
• Nate Walker, American Federation of Teachers
• Teferi Brent, Detroit 300 and Goodwill Industries
• Sherita Smith, Grandmont-Rosedale Community Development
• Vanessa Kessler, Michigan Department of Education
• Matthew Simoncini, Former President & CEO of Lear Corporation