Innovation is in our DNA: The Coalition, Small Schools, and the Challenges of Today

Abeo School Change is a highly adaptive organization with a distinctive cadre of professionals whose essential knowledge, skills, and experience support the adult learning needs that make school and system innovation possible. 

With deep roots in school transformation, Abeo was originally established in 1998 as the Coalition of Essential Schools Northwest Center (CESNW), a regional center for the CES network. The aim of CESNW was to assist schools and districts in developing personalized, equitable and intellectually challenging schools. Abeo’s work continues to be influenced by the Coalition of Essential Schools’ Ten Common Principles and an unwavering commitment to equity and educational success for every child. In 2001, CESNW teamed with The Small Schools Project as technical service provider for the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation’s Small Schools Initiative, focusing on school redesign, instructional coaching and leadership development.  

The name of the organization was changed to Abeo School Change in 2009 to better reflect our accumulated learning and our diverse and growing client pool. During this time, Abeo strategically evaluated its client services and offerings - diversifying the talents of our coaches and developing a portfolio of customizable services. 

Since 2009, the world and education have become more complex and ambiguous. Throughout, Abeo School Change has remained committed to its human-centered approach to professional learning. Though Our Principles have evolved since our time as CESNW, we remain true to our roots of supporting schools to be places where each student is able to thrive, feel a sense of belonging and use their mind well.