Business and industry in Central Indiana are inextricably linked to the pool of labor created by local K-12 and higher education institutions. Yet, the Indianapolis community is not preparing all students to join tomorrow's workforce.
Many youth lack the skills necessary to be successful when they begin jobs.
The Indianapolis community must focus its resources to help school districts, parents, teachers and others achieve education reform goals by working together as a community to find solutions. The guiding principles to these solutions, and ultimately to education reform, must include collaboration, higher standards, accountability, deregulation and financial flexibility for all schools, as well as broader choices for all parents and students. The Indianapolis Chamber of Commerce believes the quality of education throughout Central Indiana is everyone's business. Our community must do more to ensure that every child has the tools to be successful in this changing, knowledge-based society. All Marion County schools must increase expectations and academic achievement for all students so they are prepared for continuing education or meaningful employment.