The Rainin Foundation envisions a world where all Oakland children succeed regardless of their race, level of income or neighborhood. We focus on early childhood education because these years make a big difference in a child’s life.
Children learn at home, in the community and in the classroom. Empowering the adults who interact with them daily can help children be successful in school and in life. At the heart of our approach are four equity levers that can lead to improved outcomes for children: teaching and learning, support for families and communities, policy advocacy and strategic networks. We ground our work in community wisdom, partnering with families, educators, community organizations and like-minded funders to unlock potential in Oakland’s youngest learners.
Education Program Snapshot
Education Grants
Education grants are by invitation only. Funding supports teachers and families to build relationships that develop children’s language, literacy and social emotional skills so they become confident and joyful learners!
Education Initiatives
Learn about the Rainin Foundation’s initiatives to get all Oakland children ready for kindergarten and reading successfully by the end of third grade.
Education News & Stories
08/22/2023 | Education
The Kenneth Rainin Foundation awarded over $3.7 million in Education grants to advance equitable literacy solutions in Oakland.
07/18/2023 | Education
Listening and learning is at the heart of High Expectations’ approach and ongoing success in helping families and school staff partner to support holistic achievement for students.
03/15/2023 | Education
FULCRUM and Ignite! Reading are showing the power of what’s possible when Oakland children get equitable access to evidence-based learning and supports.
