#United States #Orlando #K-12 Education #Adam Milstein #Milstein Family Foundation

Panel on K-12 Transparency and Foreign Influence

In a pressing move to enhance accountability and transparency within the American K-12 education system, the Adam and Gila Milstein Family Foundation (MFF) is set to sponsor a panel discussion at the upcoming State Policy Network (SPN) Annual Meeting. Scheduled from August 24 to 27, 2026, at the prestigious JW Marriott Grande Lakes in Orlando, Florida, this event promises crucial insights into the complexities surrounding educational influences and funding.

The session, aptly titled "Transparency, Parental Power, and Exposing Foreign Influences in K–12," is scheduled for August 26, 2026, from 3:30 PM to 4:15 PM ET. Given that the K-12 public school system serves the majority of students in the United States, concerns over transparency and external influence in educational content are more pressing than ever. With the advent of foreign-funded initiatives and various unchecked influences, parents and policymakers are increasingly advocating for greater insights into the curriculum their children are being taught. This panel aims to address these critical issues and discuss how to maintain transparency and accountability in alignment with American values.

Expert Panelists

The discussion will feature a wealth of expertise from notable figures in education, national security, and antisemitism research:

• - Kate Bierly, Campaign Director at Next Generation Texas within the Texas Public Policy Foundation (TPPF)
• - Deb Kraulidis, representing Moms for America (Grassroots)
• - Dr. Brandy Shufutinsky, Moderator and Panelist from the Foundation for Defense of Democracies (FDD)
• - Chen Rosenberg Klein, who will serve as the Panel Lead from the Milstein Foundation

These panelists, each representing different yet interconnected fields—ranging from grassroots parental advocacy to foreign funding investigations—share a common belief: the workings of any classroom, particularly those involving foreign funds, should be exposed to public scrutiny and accountability. As Adam Milstein articulates, "Educational institutions that accept foreign funds must face scrutiny and accountability."

Milstein Foundation's Commitment

MFF's active role in the SPN Annual Meeting demonstrates the foundation's commitment to fostering a thriving educational system that upholds American values. With a history spanning over 25 years, the Milstein Foundation supports over 200 nonprofit organizations while facilitating over 1,000 partnerships among them. This collaborative approach enhances their collective capacity to address pressing issues in education and beyond. Notably, MFF's involvement in prior meetings has included significant discussions on promoting American values and counteracting radical ideologies within educational frameworks.

About the Visionaries

Adam Milstein, a prominent Israeli-American venture philanthropist and businessman, has played a pivotal role in advocating for a balanced approach to education. Following his service in the Israel Defense Forces during the 1973 Yom Kippur War, Milstein moved to the U.S. in 1981, where he has since dedicated his life to community leadership. He is also a managing partner at Hager Pacific Properties and has lent his expertise to numerous other organizations.

Gila Milstein, born in Morocco and raised in Israel, is another integral figure in this philanthropic venture. She serves as President of Stand By Me and is involved with the MERONA Leadership Foundation. Together, they have established the Adam and Gila Milstein Family Foundation, which focuses on strengthening American values, combating hatred, and supporting the U.S.-Israel alliance.

The Importance of Transparency in Education

As discussions about K-12 education move into the spotlight, the Milstein Foundation's sponsored panel will contribute significantly to ongoing conversations about foreign influences in American classrooms. Participants will delve into vital questions surrounding financial sources of educational content and foreign influences that may impact U.S. curricula. With educational institutions increasingly under scrutiny for accepting funding from abroad, this panel seeks to advocate for enhanced oversight, ensuring that the next generation receives a comprehensive education rooted in transparency and accountability.

This panel promises to be a pivotal moment for parents, educators, and policymakers alike, spotlighting the need for clarity within the educational system while safeguarding American values and interests. As the event approaches, all eyes will be on the excellent array of experts ready to engage in this crucial dialogue.