OUR WORK | ADVOCATE

Driving Policy and Systems Change

Real transformation happens when policy, funding, and local practices align. GIA advances student-centered change through policy engagement, informing equitable practices and promoting collaboration across systems.

EXPRESS INTEREST IN ADVOCACY GET INVOLVED

GIA advocates at the local, state, and federal levels to strengthen educational pathways and promote economic mobility. Our advocacy focuses on shaping systems that support learners from early education through employment, particularly those who have been historically underserved by existing policies and structures.

2025-2026 Policy Agenda

Our Policy Priorities

Early Literacy and Middle School Math

Early academic success is a strong predictor of high school graduation, college enrollment, and long-term economic mobility. Targeted investment in literacy and math will help close persistent achievement gaps among Black, Hispanic, and low-income students.

  • Advocate for continued state funding for evidence-based K-8 literacy and math interventions.
  • Support teacher recruitment and training policies focused on early education competencies and ongoing professional development.
  • Champion equitable school finance reform to direct more resources to high-need districts.
  • Promote parent and caregiver engagement strategies backed by research and community partnerships.

College and Career Readiness

Postsecondary readiness is greatly enhanced by students’ access to rigorous coursework and early college opportunities. Expanding A-G curriculum and dual enrollment increases the likelihood of degree attainment and accelerates time to completion.

  • Expand access to A-G curriculum and advocate for A-G as the default curriculum, especially in underrepresented school districts, through innovative delivery methods and curriculum support.
  • Secure state and local investment in dual enrollment programs, eliminating barriers to participation.
  • Support implementation of universal FAFSA completion policies and provide technical assistance to districts to boost financial aid access.

Postsecondary Completion

Postsecondary readiness is greatly enhanced by students’ access to rigorous coursework and early college opportunities. Expanding A-G curriculum and dual enrollment increases the likelihood of degree attainment and accelerates time to completion.

  • Support the adoption of streamlined transfer pathways that reduce excess unit accumulation, eliminate duplicative coursework, and increase the number of students transferring from community colleges to four-year universities.
  • Expand state and federal funding for mental health and basic needs centers on college campuses as well as flexible emergency funding for critical services -such as advising, mental health care, legal aid, and basic needs assistance- particularly for students facing crises, natural disasters, or the loss of federal support.
  • Advocate for broadband subsidies and food/housing assistance programs tailored to student populations.

Pathways from Education to Employment

Creating clear, supported pathways from postsecondary education to good-paying jobs is essential to drive economic prosperity in the Inland Empire. Stronger education-employer alignment supports students and addresses regional workforce gaps.

  • Advocate for scaling paid work-based learning opportunities, such as internships, apprenticeships, and co-ops.
  • Push for policies that fund workforce-aligned credential programs in key sectors like health, logistics, tech, and education.
  • Support the development and institutionalization of a Regional Business-Education Network (BEN) to align education programs with industry needs.
  • Promote integration of durable and career readiness skills into K-16 curricula.

Support for Intermediaries for Improved Cradle-to-Career Coordination 

Effective coordination across education, workforce, and social services is essential for equitable cradle-to-career outcomes. Sustainable funding for intermediary organizations strengthens regional collaboration and supports underserved communities, opportunity youth, and adult learners.

  • Advocate for dedicated state funding to fully support the Education and Workforce Development Coordinating Council, enhancing planning and coordination between higher education institutions, workforce development programs, and employers.
  • Advocate for direct, dedicated state funding to intermediaries that facilitate regional collaboration across education and workforce development, enabling sustained cradle-to-career coordination and targeted support for underserved populations.

Regional EFFORTS and Partnerships

Advocacy in Action

GIA’s commitment to equity and systems change comes to life through targeted advocacy efforts that tackle the region’s most pressing challenges. From expanding financial aid access to strengthening college and career readiness pathways, our advocacy efforts unite essential partners to drive lasting impact across the Inland Empire.

FAFSA/CADAA Completion

Mobilizing local partners to increase financial aid access and awareness.

College & Career Readiness Advocacy

Pushing for expanded A‑G pathways and readiness strategies that connect students to career skills.

Adult Learner Reengagement

Supporting policies and programs that help adults return to school and finish credentials.

TOOLS FOR POLICY ACTION

Supporting Shared Advocacy Across the Region

Access tools, research, and partner resources to strengthen policy efforts that advance educational and economic opportunity. These materials inform action, support collaboration, and elevate the work already happening across the Inland Empire.

Be a Voice for Regional Prosperity

Ready to advocate for policies that expand opportunity and strengthen the Inland Empire?
Join us.

(Required)