Earlier this month, I represented Children’s Scholarship Fund Baltimore at the Northeast Education Summit in Boston, Massachusetts. It was an impressive gathering of more than 30 advocates proudly supporting the school choice mission. During the three day summit, we discussed what families want, removing barriers like income and zip code, and the importance of empowering families to meet their kids’ unique educational needs, allowing them to reach their full potential.
The demand for school choice is surging. In 2023, 72% of all parents polled overwhelmingly supported school choice. According to The National School Choice Awareness Foundation + National School Choice Resource Center, three-quarters of parents at least considered a new school in 2023, a significant 35% increase over the 52% of parents who did the same the year before. The same study also found that when seeking education alternatives, parents want more individualized attention, better-aligned values, and safer learning environments.
For over 25 years, CSFB has remained steadfast in our mission to improve educational opportunities for children of low-income Baltimore City families in grades K-8 by providing partial scholarships without regard to race, ethnicity, or religious belief. At the heart of our mission is the belief that EVERY student is a unique individual, with the inherent right to flourish and reach their full potential. We believe that every child is capable and should have access to the educational environment that will help them thrive.
We are committed to our scholars and families and are doing our best to alleviate some of the financial burdens families face. At the beginning of the 2023-2024 school year, CSFB increased the scholarship cap allotment from $2,000 to $2,500 to help families in our community combat the rising cost of living and increases in private school tuition costs. Thanks to our generous donors, we are able to maintain that increased amount for the coming year.
CSFB scholars continue to graduate high school at an astounding rate of 98%. It is with the help of our donors, schools, and CSFB families that this success is possible. Together we continue to make a significant impact on the lives of our scholars.
Please consider joining our cause and show your support for our 275 scholarship recipients. CSFB is a small but mighty organization and donations in any amount are crucial to our success. Please consider supporting the future of Baltimore City by donating today! And, if you would like to read more about our scholar’s success, consider signing up for our monthly newsletter and following us on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram. Thank you!
With appreciation and gratitude,
—Erica Jensen
Executive Director
Children’s Scholarship Fund Baltimore
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