"The event was very successful from our perspective. All the right people were present: parents and interested members of the community, teachers, school administrators, GSU students who are taking steps to begin or grow careers in our region's schools, GSU teacher educators, everyone,” said Steven Russell, College of Education Dean. “Collaborative relationships provide solutions, and this is one of the ways relationships are begun and developed."

"Dr. Bracey's compelling analysis helps us a great deal by providing a data-rich foundation that very clearly supports what so many of our region's parents, teachers, and school administrators know to be true,” said Russell.

The Institute for Urban Education is one of three such organizations set up by the university to address the challenges faced by local communities. The Institute is working with schools and school districts in the south suburban region as they seek to deliver educational services to their students and provide professional development programming to their faculties and staff.

Russell added, “The mission of GSU's new Institute for Urban Education is all about reaching solutions together to address real challenges faced by real teachers in real classrooms with real children. We're very excited about having this kind of kick-off event."

For more information on the Institute for Urban Education call (708) 534-4050.