Education (K-12)

The world we live in and that our students will inherit is now facing massive challenges and revolutionary changes. Technological developments accelerate change at dizzying rates. The one-word description of this revolution is “globalization.” Globalization means that an economic crisis in the United States or Southeast Asia has worldwide implications. It also redefines the world of work in terms of workforce competitiveness, while opening opportunities for innovation and cross-cultural connection. As President Barack Obama observed in a speech on education, “A child born in Dallas is now competing with a child born in New Delhi.” All of this has enormous implications for K–12 education in the United States. Our children and young people—all of them, regardless of race, class, language of origin, ability or disability— need to be prepared for success in a world that does not yet fully exist.

Educators and business leaders must create meaningful, successful and long lasting partnerships to ensure that all youth are ready for college, work and life.