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a defined geographic area and its children with evidence-based programs, services and support from cradle to career. These opportunities are like charging stations that children depend on to “charge up” their developing brains and reach their full potential. The first charging station begins with every child beginning kindergarten healthy and ready to thrive. Hig h- quality early childhood experiences build the foundation for the future, and will make a tremendous difference for our at-risk students. As educators, we know that the academic achievement gap is greatly impacted by a child’s access to resources, beginni ng at a very early age. The Family Success Alliance will work to increase access to these resources for our families and children, which should be a big help in reducing, and possibly eliminating, the achievement gap in our schools. The charging continues through school and the community to make sure each child succeeds academically, receives support both in and out of school, graduates on time, begins college or a career and then ends by supporting these young adults with their life and career goals. Many families, who have felt unheard and unimportant in the past, have expressed excitement and anticipation for the work of the Family Success Alliance. By combining input from the families, children, service providers and leaders in the selected zones with decades of research, the Family Success Alliance will be able to greatly improve the odds of success for children and families in our county. When we all work together as a community, great things can be achieved. By surrounding children with dedicated organizations and individuals who are able to provide resources and support along the way, we feel confident that all children in Orange County schools will be able to achieve their true learning potential. EDITOR’S NOTES: Sheldon Lanier is director of equity and AVID for the Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools, and Jake Henry is the chief academic officer for Orange County Schools. ... For more information on the Family Success Alliance, visit www.orangecountync.gov/departments/health/FSA.php online.