Federal Policy Leadership
Leading the field in monitoring, influencing, and protecting federal policy that supports school diversity
As the leading voice for school diversity in the federal policymaking arena, NCSD works to align national advocacy efforts with the grassroots momentum happening in communities across the country. Our long-standing partnership with Raben strengthens our ability to influence administrative and legislative actions that promote school integration and equity.
Key Federal Policy Achievements
NCSD has successfully championed several federal policy initiatives, including:
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Creation of the Fostering Diverse Schools Demonstration Grants Program (FDS): This program is providing planning and implementation support to 16 state/local education agencies for community-led efforts to increase diversity in public schools.
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Increased funding for the Magnet Schools Assistance Program (MSAP): Expanding resources for fostering integration, educational opportunity, innovation, and academic excellence through magnet schools.
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Repeal of Section 426 of the General Education Provisions Act and other Anti-Integration Appropriations Provisions: Eliminating prohibitions on the use of federal funding for school integration-related transportation.
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Continued advocacy for the Strength in Diversity Act: If passed, this legislation would provide planning and implementation support for community-led efforts to increase diversity in public schools (last introduced in 2024 as H.R.3444 and S.1661).
Connecting Advocacy with Community Voices
NCSD believes that federal policy advocacy is strongest when grounded in the experiences of students, parents/caretakers, educators, and their communities. In our advocacy, we work to connect members, partners, and stakeholders to federal advocacy opportunities.
By amplifying diverse perspectives and advancing concrete policy ideas, NCSD remains committed to driving meaningful federal action to support school diversity and integration.
OUR MISSION & IMPACT
Advancing School Integration Since 2009
Founded in 2009, the National Coalition on School Diversity is a cross-sector network of 50+ national civil rights organizations, university-based research centers, and state and local coalitions working to expand support for school integration. NCSD supports its members in designing, enacting, implementing, and uplifting PK-12 public school integration policies and practices so we may build cross-race/cross-class relationships, share power and resources, and co-create new realities.