ABOUT US

The Off School Grounds Coalition is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing ethical leadership practices within schools and communities to improve the well-being of individuals. Our mission is to combat educational inequities faced by marginalized students in urban communities by empowering school principals to become catalysts for change and advocates for children.

Off School Grounds was launched in April  2020, by Dennis B. McKesey, an experienced educator, leader and executive coach that has trained scores of school leaders throughout the country through his unique style of leadership development. In light of the COVID- 19 Pandemic, the need to create a virtual platform to support, mentor and coach school leaders was undoubtedly essential. Off School Grounds provides such opportunity in conjunction with creating a “safe space” for school leaders to network and share best practices for their continued growth and development.

At Off School Grounds, we firmly believe that it is a collective responsibility to address and minimize the achievement gap for underserved children living in the most economically disadvantaged areas of our nation. Through strategic initiatives and collaborative efforts, we strive to create a more equitable education system that provides equal opportunities for every child to succeed and thrive.

Off School Grounds recognizes the power of collaboration and networking in effecting systemic change. We actively seek partnerships with like-minded organizations, policymakers, and community leaders to collectively strive towards minimizing educational disparities and ensuring the welfare of underserved children. We advocate for policies and practices that promote equity, inclusivity, and the holistic development of every student.

Our virtual meeting platform fosters the development of innovative leadership practices that allows school leaders to exchange ideas and advance educational opportunities for students of color. The weekly Zoom discussions cover a wide array of education and leadership domains that include; visionary and strategic leadership, effective professional and ethical practices, remote leading and learning as well as other essential leadership practices that are crucial for increased student achievement.

Each session extends the opportunity to relax and unwind before engaging in intellectual dialogue with the presence of a live DJ. At the onset of the meeting, the facilitator shares an opening message followed by the topic of the day. The topic lends itself to an open forum for principals to reflect and express relevant issues within their school communities. The closing consists of an inspiring message from an invited guest, who is a leader or pioneer in their respective field. The show has featured celebrity guests such as Ralph McDaniels, DJ Red Alert, Big Daddy Kane, Chuck D. from Public Enemy, Doug E. Fresh, and Dame Dash.

Off School Grounds is committed to combatting the educational inequities of marginalized students in urban communities by challenging school principals to be change agents and advocates for children. The coalition supports the premise that it is a nationwide responsibility to minimize the achievement gap for underserved children that reside in this country’s poorest communities. Off School Grounds was intended to be a beacon for school leaders during the COVID-19 Pandemic. The platform continues to amplify national dialogue among school leaders to provide greater opportunities for students of color thereafter.  

Join us in our mission to bridge the achievement gap, create transformative educational experiences, and empower principals as advocates for change. Together, we can build a future where every child, regardless of their background, has equal opportunities to succeed, thrive, and contribute to the betterment of our society.