A modernized public education is crucial to fostering greater student achievement, building an educated workforce pipeline, and protecting our future economic vitality. As we begin a long recovery, it is essential that we not only address the inequities amplified by the pandemic but also reimagine and restructure education systems to work better for all.

America Succeeds’ Equity in Education initiative targets five specific policy pillars where system change is needed and can be impactful. The five pillars encompass a broad scope that can be easily understood and embraced to increase equity across the education system.

• Staffing schools with more teachers of color is a proven tool for closing the achievement gap for students of color, and all students benefit when their educators are more diverse.

• Achieving equity in STEM creates greater opportunities for students of color to develop versatile skill sets and participate in the fastest growing, and often higher-paying, fields.

• By developing competencies that promote inclusiveness, empathy, and building cross-cultural relationships, social-emotional learning can set the tone for building a welcoming school environment where every student feels valued and supported.

• Empowering students and families with equitable educational options (such as gifted and talented programs, AP classes, and school choice), gives them the freedom to make the best decisions and the resources to pursue whatever opportunities they choose.

• Ensuring all students receive their fair share of school funding is not only fundamental to achieving equity, but also targets substantial public investments where they are needed most and puts all students on a path toward opportunity.