Who We Are

IDRA is an independent, non-profit organization. Our mission is to achieve equal educational opportunity for every child through strong public schools that prepare all students to access and succeed in college.

IDRA strengthens and transforms public education by leading policy analyses and advocacy; dynamic teacher training and principal coaching; useful research, evaluation and frameworks for action; and innovative student, family and community engagement.

We are committed to an asset-based philosophy, respecting the knowledge and skills of the individuals we work with and building on the strengths of the students and parents in their schools.

Throughout its history IDRA has been a vocal advocate for the right of every student to equality of educational opportunity. IDRA was founded in 1973 by Dr. José A. Cárdenas, then was directed by Dr. María “Cuca” Robledo Montecel. Today, IDRA is directed by Celina Moreno, J.D. IDRA fulfills its mission through professional development, research and evaluation, policy and leadership development, and programs and materials development.

Get info on IDRA’s 50th anniversary celebration.

See IDRA’s latest annual report, The Power of Voice and Action – Accelerating the Promise, for stories of IDRA’s work in 2019 before the pandemic and stories in 2020 showcasing our quick and meaningful response.