We envision a future were 100% of Black/African American students graduate with a meaningful high school diploma, are exceptionally prepared for college, career, and intergenerational community stewardship.
Black Education Strategy Roundtable (BESR) is the only Washington based organization with a specific focus on the education of Black/African American students. Through advocacy in coalition with others we work to improve public education from early learning through higher education.
Our values are rooted in the brilliance and resilience of Black/African American students and the communities that nurture them. We believe in accountability to our students and families, the power of community resources to transform learning, and the shared responsibility we all carry for their success. Guided by honesty, transparency, courage, and respect, we work collaboratively, think boldly, and commit to sustainable action until lasting change is achieved.
We hold ourselves and our partners responsible for measurable outcomes that benefit Black students.
We root our work in the wisdom, priorities, and resources of Black families and communities.
In solidarity, we collaborate with students, families, educators, coalitions, policymakers to drive systemic and equitable change.
We stay the course until long-term outcomes for Black learners are achieved.
We act with honesty, transparency, courage, and respect in all our relationships.
We embrace bold and creative strategies that push our public education systems toward equity.
Stay informed and take part — explore upcoming events where ideas are shared, communities connect, and change begins.
Quarterly Roundtable: Back‑to‑School Agenda & Interim Advocacy (Hybrid): As public schools and colleges settle into the year, this convening aims to turn community power input into fall action. We use this time to the help shape draft bill ideas and budget requests and prepare for the Legislature’s late‑fall committee/assembly days (customarily held in November/December and announced …
Real change starts with you. Whether you give your time, your voice, or your support — every action moves us forward.
