This season, classrooms across the country come to life with eager students and dedicated teachers. This time of year signals new beginnings and opportunities, while also serving as a reminder of the essential role education plays in shaping the future of individuals, communities, and our nation. At America Succeeds, we believe in the transformative power of education and the urgency of systems change to ensure that every student has access to greater opportunity.
The Economic Impact of Education
Education isn’t just about academic achievement—it’s a critical driver of economic success for individuals and society as a whole. The data speaks volumes: people with higher levels of education tend to have higher earning potential and are less likely to face unemployment. As of 2024, those with a bachelor’s degree earn 41% more in annual income compared to high school graduates.
The implications of this go beyond individual prosperity. Research continues to show that every additional year of schooling is associated with a notable increase in a country’s GDP growth rate. This underscores a simple truth: investing in education is not just a personal decision, but a societal imperative.
Education is a Powerful Tool for Breaking Cycles of Poverty and Promoting Social Mobility
Education has the potential to lift families out of poverty and provide a pathway to upward mobility. A college degree can significantly increase a person’s chances of moving up the economic ladder. Without a college degree, 45% of children born into the lowest income quintile remain stuck there as adults. However, with a college degree, they significantly improve their chances, reducing the likelihood of staying in the bottom quintile to just 16%.
Moreover, education’s impact doesn’t stop with one generation. Research shows that children of parents with higher education are more likely to pursue higher education themselves, perpetuating a positive cycle of opportunity and advancement. This generational benefit emphasizes the importance of equitable access to education as a tool for promoting social mobility.
The Educational Quality Gap
While education offers immense opportunities, the reality is that not all students have equal access to quality education. Across the country, students in underserved communities face significant barriers—outdated textbooks, limited technology, and overburdened teachers—while their peers in more affluent areas benefit from cutting-edge resources and robust support systems. This gap in educational quality is stark and perpetuates inequality, leaving too many students without the foundational skills they need to thrive.
These inequities result in persistent achievement gaps between racial, socioeconomic, and geographic groups. For instance, White students consistently score higher on standardized tests than their Black and Hispanic peers, with significant disparities in graduation and college enrollment rates as well. The long-term impact of this quality gap is clear: without access to a solid education, students face diminished prospects for career success and attaining economic mobility.
Opportunities for Bridging the Gap: How America Succeeds is Leading the Way
At America Succeeds, we are dedicated to ensuring that all students, regardless of their background or circumstances, have access to high-quality education that prepares them for success in the modern workforce. Our work focuses on bridging the education quality gap by advocating for policies that promote equitable access to education, aligning curriculum with workforce needs, and championing lifelong learning.
We believe that change starts with collaboration, and that’s why we partner with businesses, educators, and policymakers to drive meaningful change in education systems. By researching the demands of the business community, supporting innovation in teaching, and advocating for policies that foster real-world aligned learning opportunities, we aim to prepare students not only for today’s job market but for the careers of the future.
One of the key ways we are working to bridge the gap is by advocating for the integration of durable skills in schools and aligning educational outcomes with real-world workforce needs.
The Unsung Heroes: Celebrating Our Teachers
At the heart of every great education system are great teachers. These everyday heroes pour their hearts and souls into shaping young minds, often going above and beyond their job descriptions. From the elementary school teacher who stays late to help a struggling student, to the high school science teacher who inspires the next generation of researchers, teachers are the backbone of our education system.
As we push for education modernization, we must remember to appreciate and support these incredible educators. They are not just transmitters of knowledge, but mentors, role models, and sometimes even caregivers to their students.
Your Role in Shaping the Future
If you’re committed to systems change like we are, we understand the patience this work demands and commend your unwavering commitment.
If you’re wanting to support teachers and students on a local level, we have some ideas for you to help improve education quality:
- Volunteer: Offer your time and skills to local schools. Whether it’s tutoring, helping with after-school programs, or assisting with administrative tasks, every bit helps.
- Attend school board meetings: Stay informed about local education policies and make your voice heard.
- Donate supplies: Many teachers spend their own money on classroom supplies. Consider donating or organizing supply drives.
- Advocate for education funding: Contact your local representatives and express your support for increased education funding.
- Mentor a student: Share your professional experience with students through mentorship programs.
Moving Forward Together
America Succeeds is committed to this mission, and we invite you to join us in this crucial work. Together, we can ensure that every student has access to the high-quality education they deserve.
