This report highlights that two-thirds of American fourth-grade students struggle with reading and math, and the COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated these issues, particularly for marginalized groups. This has led to significant setbacks in educational achievement, with some states regressing to 1990s levels. Without foundational literacy and math skills, students are unprepared for the workforce and civic life. The report calls for policymakers and business leaders to collaborate to address these inequities and build a skilled, competitive workforce.
Urgency and Demographic Shifts
The urgency to improve the education system is underscored by a labor shortage, changing demographics, and fiscal challenges. U.S. employers face a critical gap in labor and talent, with many job candidates lacking essential skills. The report emphasizes the need for a comprehensive, long-term solution to generate homegrown talent through strong education systems. Additionally, demographic shifts are changing the composition of classrooms, with growing populations of students who are not well-served by the current K-12 system.
Policy Solutions and State Initiatives
The report showcases several state-level initiatives that have successfully addressed education-to-workforce challenges. These include:
- Science of Reading: States like Mississippi and Delaware have implemented laws aligned with the Science of Reading, resulting in significant improvements in reading scores.
- High-Quality Math Instruction: Colorado and Alabama have invested in math tutoring and teacher training to address declines in math achievement.
- Equitable Funding: California and Tennessee have revised their funding formulas to direct more resources to districts with greater needs.
- School Choice Policies: States like Idaho and Connecticut have expanded school choice options to improve educational equity.
- High-Dosage Tutoring: Georgia and Maine have invested in high-dosage tutoring programs to help students catch up academically.
Call to Action for Business Leaders and Policymakers
The report calls on business leaders to use their influence to advocate for policies that strengthen teaching, learning, and whole-child supports. It also urges policymakers to invest in evidence-based practices and create programs that expand access to work-based learning and postsecondary education. By working together, business leaders and policymakers can create a more equitable and effective education system that prepares students for the demands of the 21st-century economy.
Learn about what else what we uncovered in the full report.
