The job is only half done. What these figures tell us, in addition to the heartening trends, is that we are sending more and more youngsters to college who have not been adequately prepared in high school. Many more youngsters can meet standards of excellence if we adults are prepared to do our part as parents, teachers, principals, board members, governors, legislators, employers, and citizens. So do colleges and legislatures. In 1994, about 20 percent of all businesses were providing remedial training programs for their employees.
Basic skills are of course necessary in the world of work, but they're no longer sufficient.
Today's high-performance workplace typically seeks candidates who possess strong academic records, the ability to think and solve problems, good communication skills, high motivation, readiness for teamwork, a strong work ethic, and sound character. The jobs will be there. Cooperman These qualities are important for success in all of life, not just in work. Youngsters need a strong preparation in history and civics, art and literature, mathematics and science, as well as command of a foreign language. Those who develop skill and knowledge in the academic disciplines are also likely to develop the skills in problem-solving and communication that are so important for work and citizenship.