Free 20-week program equips Jacksonville parents and caregivers to advocate for children and strengthen their communities
JACKSONVILLE, Fla., — The Jacksonville Public Education Fund (JPEF), in partnership with Duval County Public Schools and the Kids Hope Alliance, is accepting applications for the next cohort of Parents Who Lead. Parents and caregivers interested in strengthening their leadership, advocacy and community engagement skills are encouraged to apply by Friday, August 21.
Parents Who Lead is a free, 20-week leadership program that empowers parents and caregivers to become effective advocates and changemakers for children across Jacksonville. Participants learn how city and school systems operate, build relationships with decision-makers and develop the skills and confidence to create meaningful change.
“Parents understand the hopes, needs and challenges of their children and communities better than anyone,” said Rachael Tutwiler Fortune, president of the Jacksonville Public Education Fund. “Parents Who Lead helps them turn that knowledge and passion into action. Graduates leave the program prepared to make their voices heard, bring people together and create lasting opportunities for children.”
Rooted in Connection and Action
Parents Who Lead was launched in 2018 after a JPEF survey found that 93.8% of Duval County parents did not know who represented them on the Duval County School Board. JPEF, Duval County Public Schools and the Kids Hope Alliance responded by creating an inclusive, nonpartisan program that helps parents understand public systems and learn how to make them work more effectively for all children.
During the program, participants receive free training in advocacy, communication and leadership. They learn how to engage decision-makers, collaborate with people from different backgrounds and perspectives, and turn community concerns into constructive action.
Parents Who Lead does not promote any political or social viewpoint. The program welcomes parents and caregivers from across Jacksonville and creates a space where different voices and experiences can contribute to a shared goal: improving outcomes for children.
Turning Passion Into Impact
Each participant completes a capstone project based on their vision for improving the lives of Jacksonville’s children. Past Parents Who Lead graduates have:
- Revived a dormant parent-teacher organization at an elementary school
- Helped students connect with local history
- Created developmental toolkits and resources for families
- Guided parents through the complexities of Individualized Education Programs
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Built stronger connections among neighbors through advocacy and community engagement
Independent research by New York University found that Parents Who Lead produces measurable results. After completing the program, 88.6% of participants reported civic confidence, compared with 60.9% before the program. The percentage demonstrating civic knowledge increased from 54.9% to 85%.
The next Parents Who Lead cohort will begin September 12, 2026, and continue through February 20, 2027.
Applications are due Friday, August 21. To learn more and apply, visit https://www.jaxpef.org/our-work/for-parents/
About the Jacksonville Public Education Fund
The Jacksonville Public Education Fund is an independent think-and-do tank that believes every
student should graduate high school inspired and prepared for success in college or a career and life. JPEF serves as a bridge in support of public education, activating community support,
connecting partners and advancing effective ideas for the success of all students. For more
information: www.jaxpef.org.