Erin Patterson
Erin Patterson has dedicated her career to advancing policies and practices that expand educational opportunity for children and youth facing significant barriers. She began her career in 2007 as a high school government and economics teacher, an experience that continues to shape her commitment to ensuring that every young person can access and succeed in school. She later earned a Master of Public Policy and has held leadership and policy roles at the U.S. Department of Education, the American Youth Policy Forum, the Community Foundation for the National Capital Region, and EducationCounsel.
Central to Erin’s work is a belief that meaningful change in education depends on thoughtful, collaborative processes that bring together policymakers, practitioners, and communities. She has committed her career to building those processes—helping translate policy into practical solutions that work for students. Her work has included advocating for the restoration of Pell Grants for individuals who are incarcerated; organizing Congressional site visits to deepen lawmakers’ understanding of how youth in foster care and the juvenile justice system can complete their education; partnering with federal, state, and local early childhood leaders to implement policies prioritizing children experiencing homelessness; and supporting state and local education agencies in maximizing pandemic relief funds to meet the needs of students experiencing homelessness.
Erin lives in Maryland with her wife and their five dogs.