MISSION

OPEN is committed to ensuring that there is an informed and engaged community that exercises influence on policy and programs to realize excellence and equity for every child in public schools in New Orleans.

OPEN achieves its mission by:
• EXPANDING knowledge of the issues through quality educational research and policy analysis
• ENGAGING local residents and groups, strengthening their civic capacity, and providing the tools to make change
• AMPLIFYING community voice through supporting participatory decision, connecting stakeholders with policymakers, and analyzing data to make community-aligned policy recommendations

VISION

We envision a New Orleans where trust and honesty are integral in all social interactions and inclusion and transparency are hallmarks of public policy decisions. Where residents, regardless of race or economic status, are assured of equitable access to excellent education. Where the fruits of quality education include an informed citizenry, a strong diverse economy, an upwardly mobile workforce and bright futures for happy and safe children and families.

VALUES

Honesty • Equity • Trust • Transparency • Inclusion • Quality Education • Diversity • Informed Citizenry