Hi John,

The new decade marks the 20th anniversary of AQE. Twenty years of determination and commitment to educational justice for the students of New York. As the new executive director of AQE, I’m excited to lead an organization with such a strong legacy and focus on our most precious New Yorkers, our children.

Seven years ago I came to AQE and I immediately knew it was the perfect home for me. As a former educator, I left the class after being frustrated with education policies that seemed to come down from people who had no experience in the classroom. I then went on to my first organizing job where I learned the power of collective action and leadership development. At AQE I’ve been able to combine my love for education and passion for organizing to create systemic change for the children of New York.

I have seen the power of parents, students and educators standing together. Together, we have worked to take on the school to prison pipeline, implement culturally responsive education, stop school vouchers, and increase funding for public schools.

As a proud product of New York City public schools, from kindergarten to CUNY, this work is deeply personal to me. I know how transformative a quality, culturally responsive education can be in a child's life, and I am determined to ensure that no child is denied that opportunity.

It would be impossible to see this future without the person who has led AQE these past 14 years: Billy Easton. Billy, you have given so much to this organization, and built a statewide movement for education justice. Your mentorship has given me the skills and confidence to be able to step into this new role. AQE would not be the same without you, nor would New York. Thank you.

We put together a video of just a few of the people whose lives Billy have impacted — we invite you all to take a few minutes to watch it now.

As we move forward into a new era of our organization, we remain committed to equity and justice for New York’s children. Our work will continue until all children, regardless or race, class or immigration status has access to high quality public schools in their community.

I can't wait to see all that we accomplish together in the next 20 years of AQE.

In solidarity,

Jasmine Gripper
Executive Director, AQE

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