Our children are our future. Education is at the heart at developing their skills and abilities and yet year after year we hear about the degrading state of our educational system. Our nation has spent trillions of dollars on failed programs that research and experts had promised would work. Achievement gaps persist, performance declines are accelerating and so it is of paramount importance that we explore novel ideas and solutions. You might not agree with many or any of the ideas below, and we certainly are not endorsing policies – our hope is just to create a space where bright, dedicated folks from the community can share their ideas – so that we can all come together and better understand each others experiences, concerns and how we might move forward together to build a brighter future.

Lydia Greenway

I think a lot of schools are trying to implement this, but I would focus more on personal finance and soft-skills. Students need to know how to manage their money, and they need practice interacting with people face to face. The important of eye-contact, a good handshake, the art of small talk, and active listening is HUGE in any industry…but it’s a dying skill. Read more>>

Lawrence Okonya

In our current economy, I believe the systems in place today are clearly not the systems of yesterday. The world is moving at an incredibly fast pace and there is little we can do to stop it. Most would argue there is no stopping it at all. This digital revolution is here whether we like it or not. With that being said, our response to the recent climate will more than likely dictate our future and the future of the generation in bloom. Read more>>

Sara Amaya

I would change how educators are chosen. There has to be a better way to filter out people who truly have a calling and passion to teach because I truly believe those are the people that can and will make a difference. Choosing high value educators affects how students will be prepared to chose a fulfilling life and career. We can prepare students for a more fulfilling life and career by helping students be more self aware. Read more>>

ABAgail Dunn

As an elementary school teacher, I highly relate to this concept. When you hold a child to a high standard, they will meet it every time. I think it’s important to instill in them the importance of kindness, compassion, and happiness, and finding joy in learning, rather than living to work. Read more>> 

Jeannie Rapstad

Only 15% of high school students receive speech education. Most university students take only one speech class in a four-year curriculum. As a result, many people enter the workforce unable to communicate effectively in their jobs. 77% of American workers confess to suffering from speech anxiety. Due to their lack of communication skills, many of these workers are passed over for promotion, year after year, and just feel frustrated in their dead-end jobs. Read more>>