The Brentwood Union Free School District’s My Brother’s Keeper (MBK) program has earned national certification from the MBK Alliance – an initiative of the Obama Foundation – affirming its commitment to improving life outcomes for boys and young men of color and unlocking access to new resources along the way.

“I’m so proud of the commitment, leadership, and heart that made this milestone possible,” said Superintendent Wanda Ortiz-Rivera. “Earning certification from the MBK Alliance reflects the dedication of our students, advisors and administrative team, along with the strong support of our Board of Education. Together, they’ve created opportunities that open doors for our young people and make MBK a true source of pride for Brentwood. On behalf of our students, I want to thank everyone who inspires, guides and believes in them every day. This is a moment we can all celebrate.”

With this certification, Brentwood joins a growing network of certified communities across the country, gaining access to exclusive coaching, training, peer-learning opportunities and national conventions.

The MBK Alliance was launched in 2014 in response to President Barack Obama’s call to action to close opportunity gaps for boys and young men of color. Certification recognizes communities that have embraced the Alliance’s framework, built strong local leadership teams and demonstrated sustained action toward six key milestones: Entering school ready to learn, reading at grade level by third grade, graduating from high school ready for college and career, completing postsecondary education or training, successfully entering the workforce and reducing violence and providing second chances.

The first convention that representatives from Brentwood are eligible to attend will take place in Chicago in mid-September, kicking off an exciting new chapter for the program.