Alliance Schools Initiative

The Texas Interfaith Education Alliance initiative started in 1992 and now includes 89 schools throughout the southwest part of Texas. It reflects the vision of the Industrial Areas Foundation (IAF), a network of broad-based, multi-ethnic, interfaith organizations in low-income communities aimed at building the capacity of residents to restructure the allocation of power and resources in their communities. The purpose of the Alliance is to develop a community-based constituency working to strengthen schools by restructuring relationships among school and community stake-holders. Partners include IAF, the Texas Interfaith Education Fund, the Texas Education Agency, school districts, school staff, parents and community leaders.

IAF organizers paid for by local IAF organizations meet with parents, educators and community leaders over an extended period. The purpose of these meetings is for participants to consider school and neighborhood issues, to develop a strong leadership network, and to decide whether they really want to rethink and redesign the way their school educates children. In order to become an Alliance school, teams must make a public commitment of their intention to work together.

In return, the Texas Interfaith Education Alliance provides on-going training for school staff and community members on educational innovations and team building, and the Texas Education Agency agrees to exercise maximum flexibility in granting waivers and other exceptions necessary for schools to implement changes.

School-community teams have developed neighborhood efforts to counter gang violence and ease racial tensions; introduced tutorial and scholarship opportunities; developed after-school and extended-day programs; and made substantive changes in curriculum, scheduling and assessment methods.

Contact Information:
Texas Interfaith Education Fund
1106 Clayton Lane, Suite 120W
Austin, TX 78723
512.459.6551
512.459.6558 (fax)