How to make smart investments in Minnesota’s students
Current educational investments tend to be driven by the system’s needs. Growth & Justice proposes a new way of thinking about investment by focusing on the student, following four principles:
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Smart investments aim for compound effects.
Comprehensive programs that address the whole student’s needs — social support, academic preparation, and improved access to early childhood and post-secondary learning opportunity — are more effective than any single component program.
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Smart investments accumulate capital.
Educational success depends on students being ready for school, continually ready to learn, and ultimately, ready for life.
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Smart investments address real disparities.
The greatest returns on investment come from addressing the greatest disparities in opportunity and achievement.
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Smart investments are made with accountability for results.
Investments should be chosen based on evidence through a transparent process that measures and reports the outcomes.