From these early discussions came a shared vision for a world-class educational system that enables all students in Silicon Valley to be successful, productive citizens in the 21st century. It also sets high standards and calls for clearly measured student achievement. Using a venture capital model, Challenge 2000 invests money, equipment and human resources, and works in partnership with the teams. The initial investment of support for up to three years holds teams accountable for their stated goals. Teams cultivate sponsorship within their districts and communities and develop systems that allow them to continue their efforts independently at the end of the investment period.
Teams focus their efforts on improving students' performance in math, science or literacy.
In 1994, the 21st Century Education Initiative Board announced the formation of the Challenge 2000 program and asked all school districts in Santa Clara and San Mateo counties to ratify the Guiding Principles. Districts were invited to an informational meeting at Hewlett-Packard where they were encouraged to form teams and apply for Challenge 2000 support. A committee, made up of business leaders, parents and educators, was formed to evaluate the proposals. Those teams began their work in 1995. In July 1998, the Gilroy Team became the ninth Challenge 2000 team.