The Southern Regional Education Board (SREB) is a nonprofit organization that works collaboratively with Alabama and 15 other member states to improve education at every level--from pre-K to postdoctoral study--through many effective programs and initiatives. SREB's "Challenge to Lead Goals for Education", which call for the region to lead the nation in educational progress, guide much of the organization's work. This paper discusses how SREB serves Alabama. SREB informs and advises Alabama's state leaders, legislators and educators on state progress in education through policy research and reports, conferences and meetings. SREB also provides school improvement programs for middle grades and high schools; issues updates on key topics; and provides professional development and other services to educators at all levels to improve instruction, student achievement, teacher quality and leadership. Member states are able to share many resources through SREB, saving money and achieving results that otherwise would be impossible.