Problem In the changing economy, it’s harder than ever to get a good-paying job with only a high school education, yet a growing number of high school graduates feel that they can’t afford a higher education. Unfortunately, it costs Oregon taxpayers an average of $14,000 per year for each […]Mark Hass | Former Senator | Portland, OR

Problem One of the biggest obstacles in preparing students–especially lower income kids–to contribute as thoughtful young leaders within our community is our antiquated school calendar. Solution Mayor Driscoll is leading a coalition of parents, teachers, and researchers to modernize education by redesigning and extending the school day in her city. […]Kim Driscoll | Mayor | Salem, MA 2014 Challenge Finalist

Problem Investing in a 4-year-old’s brain is the single best investment we can make for the longest term return on closing academic and achievement gaps, but it’s been difficult in many places to prioritize funding for preschool and test what works best. Solution Senator Ferguson has an innovative solution: “Race […]Bill Ferguson | Senate President | Baltimore, MD 2014 Challenge Finalist

Problem Because many states continue to face budget challenges, many states have scaled back critical funding for education and entrepreneurship. Solution State Treasurer Cowell proposes the creation of a multi-billion dollar state-funded endowment using escheat money that pays for community college and university scholarships and invests in high-growth funds and […]Janet Cowell | Former State Treasurer | North Carolina