Davidson County: Groups to advocate for funding schools

Several Nashville non-profits have formed one group to help raise awareness and encourage people to advocate for funding public education. Dubbed "Friends of Metro Schools," the umbrella organization includes Stand for Children, the Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce, the Interdenominational Ministerial Fellowship and other partners. The groups united this week to raise community awareness about funding issues using e-mail alerts about legislation that affects school funding. The hope is an educated community will take action by writing local and state lawmakers, said Marc Hill, chief education officer for the Chamber of Commerce. Hill said the group won't weigh in on policy issues, such as standard school attire or year-round school. The focus will be on getting dollars for Metro Schools, he said. For more information, parents can log on to www.stand.org/friendsofmetroschools or e-mail friends@stand.org. — JAIME SARRIO jsarrio@tennessean.com