SAM is part of a National Network

StriveTogether is a nonprofit organization, leading a network of communities that work and evolve together to advance equity so local success stories can become the reality for every child, everywhere.

The StriveTogether Cradle to Career Network builds on successes from coast to coast, representing nearly 70 communities across 30 states and Washington, D.C.

Together, we commit to achieving better outcomes for every child and reach more than 13 million young people.

Working to achieve racial and ethnic equity shapes who we are and what we do. We know when a community prioritizes helping every child succeed, it brings us all one step closer to an equitable world. Together we work towards building this reality so youth and families can thrive.

SAM’s Certification as a “Systems Change" and "PROOF POINT" Member

In June 2018, The Spartanburg Academic Movement received its designation as both a "Systems Change" and "Proof Point" partnership in the StriveTogether Network.

“Since joining the Cradle to Career Network in 2013, Spartanburg Academic Movement has been a champion for children in Spartanburg County,” said StriveTogether President and CEO Jennifer Blatz. “Through Spartanburg Academic Movement’s leadership and hard work, partners from business, government, education and nonprofits are making measurable differences for students and families. The Network’s approach to improving education is getting results across the country, and Spartanburg County is clearly part of that success story.”

After a five-year journey to deeply embed StriveTogether Network practices to produce results for Spartanburg County, a team of StriveTogether evaluators met with more than a dozen community members to assess SAM's community impact related to changing systems in the county.

“This top designation from StriveTogether is of great importance,” said former Spartanburg Academic Movement Executive Director John Stockwell. “It not only acknowledges our work — it recognizes the progress of our entire county toward shared goals of improved academic achievement. This has been accomplished with the deep dedication of our public schools and multiple community partners. Consistently improving outcomes year to year will require sharper focus on the economic mobility of all students and families across boundaries of region, race and income — a focus embedded within our ongoing efforts across Spartanburg County.”