I am always amazed with the general assumption that “school” will fix the problems and answer the questions for modern society. The lag between academic currency and the issues of the day are enormous. The majority of students are left stranded, knowing how to read at only an adequate level, write marginally, and perform basic math calculations. The deep learning necessary for intelligent participation in American society is just not there.

Americans assume that simply being American imbues all with what the society needs to continue to be the vibrant leader of the world in innovation, finance, arts, international political influence, democratic process, etc…

Those days are very much of the past. Parents, students, schools, business leaders, community leaders, policy makers, all need to become engaged in actively planning for a very different future. Students need guidance at a deep, thoughtful and consistent level, how to think about their future, how to plan for it based on the realities of who they are, their abilities and the future demands placed on them. They need mentors to talk to, to share ideas with, to help practice deeper thinking, and achieving balance and perspective in their lives. The rate of changes ahead will be enormous, difficult and complicated. American society needs to be actively thinking forward, and the students of this society need help to become capable and fluid in doing that.
 Schools and Colleges can’t do this well.

Students deserve more than random insight, and inferences of the academic experience. They need serious care and support to help them confront the enormous questions of their Age.