Over the past two decades, states have built data systems to capture and store vital information that can be used to measure student performance. Most states have K-12 and postsecondary data repositories that hold statewide longitudinal data on enrollment, demographics, assessments, retention and completion. Increasingly, states have invested in comprehensive online data dashboards in an […]
Promising Policy: Driving Better Outcomes and Equity in Education
A New Series from HCM Strategists HCM Strategists recently embarked on our second decade of work to help clients define and advance effective education and health care policies that serve the people who stand to benefit the most. We founded our firm on the belief that everyone deserves access to high-quality education and health care […]
The Equity Imperative
Promising Policy: Driving Better Outcomes and Equity in Education Propelling more Americans toward postsecondary credentials of value must continue to be a priority for states nationwide. While obtaining a credential of value provides benefits for all students, significant benefits accrue to those from traditionally underserved and underrepresented populations. Postsecondary attainment is a powerful tool that […]
Americans Want Good Jobs. Will the Government Ensure the Necessary Postsecondary Skills to Get One?
Lessons from the midterms and a Federal and State Outlook for Postsecondary Education: While Congress races to finish business during the lame duck session, there is quiet and sure momentum at both levels of government and across parties to help more adults get the postsecondary skills they need to survive in today’s economy. Earlier this month, […]
To Boost the Economy, Focus on Adult Students
Is your state working to help more people earn college credentials? Perhaps someone you know dreams of going back to college to finally earn that degree. A sampling of recent headlines from across the country suggests we might be reaching critical mass on the issue.
Eyeing the Next Storm: 10 Years After Hurricane Katrina
It seems unbelievable, but tomorrow marks the tenth anniversary of Hurricane Katrina. Arriving in New Orleans this week, the memories came flooding back. The Weather Channel picture of a mammoth storm. Survivors’ joy turned to horror over learning that the levees were overtopping and that some would not hold. The faces of death, destruction and despair.
Framing the College Affordability Problem
College affordability is an issue that weighs heavily on many people’s minds. And it should. There was a recent story about a public official who was concerned about college affordability. He said he could relate to students who struggle to pay for college because less than 10 years after leaving graduate school, he was still paying off debt for both his undergraduate and graduate degrees. From Harvard.
Confronting Tradition on the Diamond and in the Classroom
Those of us residing in the Northeastern United States continue to hide away under blankets, waiting for a sign that spring is just around the corner. And there is one spring staple that Mother Nature can’t take away – the start of baseball.
Bracket Busting: March Madness with a Student Success Twist
One day in and March Madness has ensued, already proving why it is one of the best sports events of the year. Filling out the bracket. Pulling for the underdog. Buzzer beaters. The nearly 10 years of a spotless record against my dear husband. I love it all.