Education Reform as Public Policy: A Role for Extension

Education has become a top priority on the national legislative agenda. Of particular concern is the growing disparity in achievement between students of low income and high income status. New laws passed by Congress have established the trend in public policy to change the education system by involving the local community. This is where Extension and 4-H in particular can have an important role. We have the expertise and community connections to facilitate productive dialogue between education, business, parents, and community organizations. Establishing such a collaborative effort can provide all students with the opportunity to succeed in the next century.