Across the country, there is a refreshing and growing movement to improve America’s high schools. The reason is straightforward: there has been little or no consideration given to the results that matter for today’s high school graduates. Creating high schools that truly will improve learning, achievement and competencies demands a clear understanding of the knowledge, skills and attributes that are increasingly important for every high school student today.
The Case for 21st Century Skills
In an increasingly competitive global economy, it is not enough for students to acquire a mastery of core-subjects alone. Skills like creativity, problem-solving, communication and analytical thinking are necessary for all levels of success, from entry-level jobs to engineering and technical fields. However, the U.S. K-12 education system as a whole does not yet teach and measure these skills directly.
Traditional metrics are important, but they are no longer sufficient indicators of student preparedness. There is broad agreement that for many students, high schools are not working and need to be overhauled.
Sobering Statistics
- Eighty-four percent of employers say K-12 schools are not doing a good job of preparing students for the workplace; 55 percent say schools are deficient in preparing students with basic employability skills (such as attendance, timeliness and work ethic); 51 percent cite math and science deficiencies; and 38 percent cite reading and comprehension deficiencies.
- A very small percentage of 4th and 8th grade US students (less than 30%) perform at a proficient level in math, while up to 20% lack the competence to perform even basic mathematical computations.
- U.S. students are falling behind their peers internationally. We can no longer claim that we are unparalleled. Students around the world outperform American students on assessments that measure 21st century skills.
- U.S. innovation is falling behind. Innovation and creativity no longer set US education apart. Innovators around the world rival Americans in breakthroughs that fuel economic competitiveness.
- Workplace jobs and skill demands are not being satisfied. Leading high tech employers routinely lament the lack of a skilled workforce that is required in today’s jobs, and are alarmed by the prospect of filling the jobs of tomorrow.
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