Our History
The Children’s Education Project was born out of a shared vision to create positive change in our community. Founded 1997 by Joan and Howard Poulter, the couple responded to the need for academic improvement in West Oakland schools and wanted to create a program that would encourage students to strive for excellence. TCEP emerged with a mission to provide children in Oakland with equitable access to educational opportunities and support.
Our journey began with a small group of dedicated mentors and tutors who worked tirelessly to uplift the academic performance and self-confidence of our students. Over the years, our impact has grown, and we now serve hundreds of children annually, building a legacy of educational excellence and leadership development.
As we continue to evolve, our commitment to empowering young minds and nurturing hearts remains steadfast. We are driven by the belief that education is the key to unlocking the potential within every child, regardless of their background or circumstances.
Our Values and Beliefs
Equity
We believe in creating an inclusive and equitable learning environment where every child has the opportunity to thrive, regardless of their socio-economic status or background.
Integrity
Integrity is at the core of our organization. We are committed to transparency, accountability, and ethical practices in all aspects of our work.
Empowerment
We empower our students to take charge of their education, embrace leadership opportunities, and develop the skills needed to become confident, responsible citizens.
Resilience
We embrace challenges with resilience, using setbacks as opportunities for growth and continuous improvement.
Collaboration
We value collaboration and actively seek partnerships with organizations, volunteers, and community members to maximize our impact and create lasting change together.
