Who We Are
Arlington Parents for Education is a grassroots, bipartisan community group advocating for accountability, transparency and excellent educational outcomes in Arlington Public Schools.
Our Story
Our group formed on June 26, 2020, by an Arlington parent frustrated by APS’ decision to not fully open schools in the fall 2020. APE worked throughout the 2020-2021 school year to provide an in-person choice to those families who wanted or needed it for their children.
During that time, our community grew to over 1200 parents, educators and concerned Arlington citizens.
As we advocated for opening schools safely for those who needed or wanted it, we realized that closed schools were a symptom of deeper problems at APS and with our School Board.
There was no true dialogue, and no meaningful response or engagement with parents and other stakeholders about the incredibly important and far-reaching decisions being made. The School Board was essentially a rubber stamp, asking few questions and taking no votes on significant issues affecting all students.
As we emerge from the pandemic, there are still critical issues related to return to school, learning loss and much more to ensure our children and their educational, social and emotional needs are put first. We are committed to working to hold APS and the School Board accountable to 1) fully reopen schools and keep them open, 2) uphold sensible educational and operational policies, and 3) engage in transparent decision-making.
Our Structure
In order to most effectively advocate for APS’ most important constituent, its students, we have formed a 501c(4) organization. This new structure enables our advocacy to extend beyond that of attending School Board meetings and writing letters. In addition, we can now endorse candidates, raise money and lobby elected officials. The past year has shown us that these actions are essential to drive change and accountability at APS and with our School Board. Questions about funding? Visit our FAQ page.
To ensure a diversity of voices and viewpoints, our board is made up of bipartisan members.
Our Board Members
Our board is bipartisan.
Alison Babb
Sheila Kelly
Sheila Leonard
Amy Rzepka
Katie Sunderland