Our Purpose: Preparing Every Learner for School, Work, and Life

America Succeeds is leading the development of a K–12 Durable Skills Framework, designed to align the widely adopted Pathsmith Durable Skills Framework with age-appropriate learning across grades K–12.

This work responds to a simple but urgent reality: while technical knowledge changes rapidly, durable skills—like communication, critical thinking, collaboration, and leadership—endure. These human and professional competencies are the most sought-after by employers, and the most essential for long-term success in both learning and life.

The project’s goal is to help adults make durable skills explicit, measurable, and developable for youth—equipping adults with the clarity and tools to foster what matters most for youth’s futures.

Our Approach: Four Phases of Development

The K–12 Durable Skills Framework Project is a multi-phase effort to ensure rigor, developmental alignment, and practical usability.

Phase 1: Framework Development (May–Aug 2025)
A comprehensive literature review and collaboration with subject matter experts (SMEs) will inform the first draft of the grade-banded K–12 framework.
Phase 2: SME Convenings & Refinement (Aug–Oct 2025)
Educator and expert convenings will provide critical insights and feedback to shape Version 2 of the framework, ensuring developmental appropriateness and clarity across grade bands.
Phase 3: Pilot Testing (Oct 2025–Jan 2026)
Adults across the country will implement and test the draft framework in classrooms, afterschool programs, and other learning environments, providing real-world feedback on usability and effectiveness.
Phase 4: Finalization & Resource Development (Feb–Apr 2026)
Findings from the pilot will inform Version 3—the public release of the K–12 Durable Skills Framework—accompanied by resources/tools to support implementation at scale.

Join the Movement

This project is building the foundation for a new era of teaching and learning—one where future readiness isn’t a slogan; it’s the point.

We’re inviting educators, youth program staff, researchers, and partners to pilot resources, provide feedback, and help bring durable skills to life in every classroom. 👉 Learn more and get involved

Research Practice Collaborative (RPC):
Insights on Durable Skills Education

In 2024, America Succeeds launched and completed Phase I of the Research Practice Collaborative (RPC) to explore how innovative schools and programs are preparing students for success through the development of durable skills—core competencies like communication, critical thinking, and adaptability. This project focused on the deliberate practices and systems that connect academic learning to real-world applications, equipping students for school, work, and life.

Working closely with four diverse schools and programs, America Succeeds conducted site visits, interviews, and focus groups to uncover how these institutions are fostering meaningful skill development. The findings provide actionable insights for educators and leaders aiming to create similar opportunities for their students.

This report marks the first phase of an ongoing initiative to deepen understanding and share effective strategies for durable skills education. Future phases of the Research Practice Collaborative will build on these findings, expanding to include additional schools and testing innovative approaches to skill development and assessment.

Leading by Example: Schools and Programs Advancing Durable Skills

These spotlights showcase four pioneering schools and programs from Phase I of the Research Practice Collaborative, highlighting their unique approaches to developing durable skills and preparing students for future success.