EXPECT was first established in 2011 as Concerned Advocates for Effective Education (CAFEE) by community activists and representatives who sought to maintain emphasis on equity and achievement of all students. The founding members of CAFEE thought it essential to maintain an independent group in the tradition of the first African American Advisory Group, which was established in the early 1990s, and the Baltimore County Education Coalition, both of which served for years to provide advocacy and support for students and parents throughout Baltimore County. As with CAFEE, its parent organization, EXPECT is comprised of individuals who bring years of experience and knowledge related to diversity and equity in education.

The mission of EXPECT is to promote and advocate for equitable and effective education for minority students in Baltimore County Public Schools (BCPS) and to ensure that all students regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, socioeconomic status, or any other background factor are optimally prepared success in their educational, vocational, social, and personal lives.

Primary goals of EXPECT are to improve the academic achievement for all students and eliminate existing achievement gaps among various subgroups of students, particularly students who are considered as members of racial/ethnic minorities, students with special needs, and students who experience economic challenges.