Defending Education provides a consistent voice for parents and students in the national conversation about K–12 and higher education. Through our work, policymakers, journalists, and the public better understand the challenges facing schools today—and the growing number of families who are demanding transparency, accountability, and a renewed focus on academics.

Since 2021, Defending Education has played a key role in shaping the debate on issues including parental rights, curriculum transparency, discriminatory practices in schools, and the influence of political and ideological agendas in education.

Become a Giving Club Member


Joining a Giving Club is a meaningful way to stand up for parents and students and ensure transparency and accountability in America’s schools. Defending Education relies on the support of individuals who share our commitment to protecting the rights of families and keeping education focused on academic excellence.

When you support Defending Education, you are more than a donor—you are a partner in this work. You will receive updates on our investigations, access to reports and updates on our litigation efforts, and invitations to events where we share what we’re uncovering across the country.

Mission Champions

$1,000 – $4,999

Sustaining our mission to help parents and families receive a quality, non-political education.

  • Invitations to exclusive online briefings on investigations and litigation.
  • Quarterly insider updates on Defending Ed progress and impact.
  • A dedicated personal representative on the development team to answer questions and provide updates.

Leadership Society

$5,000 – $9,999

Supporting our high-impact work that shapes the national conversation on education.

All previous benefits, plus:

  • Annual virtual briefing with Defending Ed leadership. 
  • 8 personalized updates throughout the year.

President’s Circle

$10,000+

Defending Ed’s most dedicated supporters who are advancing our mission at the highest level.

All previous benefits, plus:

  • Semi-Monthly personalized updates from DE leadership.
  • Invitations to regional Defending Ed events.
  • Invitations to national Defending Ed events.

More Ways To Give


Defending Education is pleased to share an overview of several charitable giving options. These strategies can offer meaningful tax advantages while helping you direct more of your resources to your family and the causes you care about—rather than to taxes.

While we are happy to help you explore the giving vehicles that may best fit your goals, please note that this overview is not comprehensive and should not replace guidance from your accountant or attorney.
There are many ways to support Defending Education, including straightforward cash gifts, appreciated assets, gifts from retirement accounts, and bequests.

For more information about donating stock, gifts from retirement accounts or leaving Defending Ed in your will or trust, please contact our Senior Director of Development, Andrew Kozusko – [email protected]

Cash Gifts

Appreciated Stock

Bequests

Retirement Assets

Charitable Lead & Remainder Trusts

Meet the Development Team


Andrew Kozusko Senior Director of Development

Andrew Kozusko is the Senior Director of Development for Defending Education. He has been working in development since 2018 after graduating from LaGrange College with his Masters in Philanthropy and Development.

Isabella Rossini – Donor Relations Officer

Isabella Rossini is a Donor Relations Officer at Defending Education. Previously she was a Regional Field Coordinator for the Leadership Institute. Isabella graduated from Benedictine College with her degree in Communications with an emphasis in Political Science.

Randall Austin – Development Coordinator

Randall Austin is a Development Coordinator at Defending Education. A graduate of Lynn University with degrees in Political Science and Sports Management, he has been using his skills in development to advance the organization’s mission since joining the team.

For questions, please contact the Defending Education Development Team at [email protected]

Defending Education is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, EIN 86-1596460. All donations are deemed tax-deductible to the full extent of the law. No goods or services were provided in exchange for your contribution. Access state-specific charitable disclosure requirements by clicking here.