Joining Forces to Build Bridges
The state of Washington has set a bold course for the future, embracing growth in our dynamic and innovative economy with a call to invest in a new era of postsecondary access and attainment. The stated goal is for 70% of adults between the ages of 25-44 to hold some form of a credential beyond high school — an 11 percentage point increase from current levels. If we are going to reach this lofty goal, we must join together with a sense of equity-centeredness and a deep commitment to cross-sector collaboration. It will also be essential for us to develop a deeper understanding of the unique needs, challenges, and characteristics facing the distinctive regions that comprise our state. In support of Washington’s goal of 70% postsecondary credential attainment, Central Washington University hosted a convening of partners from across the region in February 2024 to generate ideas for an upcoming summit for education policy stakeholders. Participants considered the many interrelated experiences between childhood and the individual’s lifecycle to envision effective policy ideas that will elevate educational access and attainment. The ideas that emerged from initial gathering are summarized in this piece, and updates will be made pending the results of future conversations. HIGHLIGHTED PRIORITIES ▶ Invest In Early Childhood Education ▶ Emphasize the Value of High School Education ▶ Remove Barriers to Postsecondary Access, Attainment ▶ Develop Strategies for Workforce Entry, Re-Entry
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