Imagine if public education was one of the most trusted institutions in America. We do — every day.
8 Ways to Trust is a Handbook and more for every educator and advocate interested in turning the tide on how the public feels regarding public education.
70% of parents are satisfied — a third of them, deeply satisfied — with their child's school and teachers
But only 27% of Americans share that view. That gap matters.
Parents are uniquely positioned to judge the day-to-day work of schools, and their judgments are overwhelmingly positive.
Trust breaks down not because schools don’t care or don’t deliver, but because it isn’t being made visible or shareable. Other professions have solved this problem. Education can too.
The challenge is clear:
1. Parents trust their children’s schools
2. That trust doesn't travel
3. Other professions have solved this, and now education should too
The good news is we aren't starting from scratch. We get to learn from those who have figured this out.
Join the 8 Ways to Trust Effort
You’ll learn how to make school work visible in ways the public can understand and trust.
1. Register
8 Ways to Trust is both a handbook and a membership. Choose a Full Membership or a low-cost subscription to access the tools.
2. Invite Others
Every full membership includes a gift registration. Shared understanding is part of the work.
3. Form a Pod
Pods are small groups that meet over eight weeks using the 8 Ways to Trust Handbook. Optional, but strongly encouraged. A free Facilitation Guide is available.
4. Join a National Pod
We host facilitated national Pods so people can do this work together, regardless of location. Register to receive an invitation.
5. Share Your Experience
The Handbook includes prompts for reflection and sharing. Trust grows when conversations extend beyond those doing the work.
6. Become a Partner
If you’re already advocating for public education, we welcome partners working in real communities. Contact us at [email protected].
To begin, all it takes is a desire to see public education in a better light.
Not sure where to begin?
Most people start with the Full Annual Membership, which provides the core tools to begin immediately and includes a gift membership to invite someone else into the work.
Others begin by joining a National Pod, using the Facilitation Guide, or starting with a low-cost subscription.
There’s no single right entry point. Choose what fits where you are.
