Today, only one in three high school graduates is ready for college
 

The Challenge

Across the nation, public schools strive to prepare students with the foundational skills and knowledge necessary to thrive as adults. However, in a competitive global economy, the standard for success has dramatically shifted. Getting students ready for high school graduation alone is not enough. Whether a student goes on to earn a college degree or an industry certification for workforce entry, being able to graduate from high school ready to succeed in college or the workforce is not just a compelling advantage. It’s a necessity.

The future of New York City depends upon the skills, preparedness and ingenuity of students today. It is more important than ever that students graduate from high school prepared for college or career. 

Today, only one in three is ready1.

Consider the following:

  • Studies show that while the economic value of a high school diploma alone appears to be losing value over time, the value of a bachelor’s degree continues to increase2.   In addition, the expected lifetime earnings of college graduates are estimated to be more than double that of high school graduates3.
  • Nine out of 10 low-income students aspire to college, but far fewer have been able to develop the skills to make this dream a reality. Only one in seven will earn a bachelor’s degree4.    
  • On average, 60 percent of New York City public school students graduate from high school. In 2007, only 28 percent of the city’s students graduated with an Advanced Regents Diploma—a strong indicator of college and career readiness.
  • Among students who do enter two- and four-year institutions, studies show that more than half enter under-prepared for college coursework5.  Nationally, as many as one in four college students drop out by their second year6.

 

Success in the 21st Century

It is no longer enough to master the basics by the end of high school. A new standard has been set. By graduating career or college ready, students will have the critical skills and knowledge necessary to be competitive in the new global economy.

Our Goal: By 2013, at least eight out of 10 New Visions students will be on track to graduate from high school and ready to succeed in career or college.

With 20 years’ experience improving public education in New York City, New Visions is uniquely situated to help schools equip students with the tools necessary for a bright and secure future.

Learn more about our goal to graduate New York City students ready to succeed in career or college.

 1 Bedsworth, Colby and Doctor. “Reclaiming the American Dream.” The Bridgespan Group, 2006
 2 Harrington, Paul E., Labor Market and Fiscal Impacts of Educational Attainment in New York City, Center for Labor Market Studies, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, March 6, 2009.
 3 ibid
 4 Bedsworth, et. al, 2006
 5 National Center for Education Statistics
 6 ACT, “Crisis at the Core: Preparing all Students for College and Work”. http://www.act.org/research/policymakers/pdf/crisis_report.pdf, 2005.