An article written by Tony Penn explains that the quality of life in Southern Arizona depends on the children of the community and it starts with education. Penn explains Cradle to Career.

Penn's article to the Arizona Daily Star introduces the Cradle to Career Partnership. C2C is a group of leaders that focuses on career outcome. These leaders have selected seven key results that will revolve around the birth-to-career initiative: First is kindergarten readiness which indicates that career mindedness should start at an early age; Second is early grade literacy which ensures development; Middle school math which is not to be neglected as math is essential to most careers; High school graduation which is the benchmark for success towards selecting a base career in college; Re-engagement of opportunity; Postsecondary education success; and career attainment. 

These things are necessary, as Penn illustrates, every child needs all the support it requires for education and adulthood. Each child should have the necessary resources inside and outside of the school. Penn also explained that this should be the top priority of each community in order to have a thriving economy.

He continues to say that there is no direct cure as the reach is small and the area is wide. He listed down the things the system needs in order to attain the goal: quality early education, quality K-12 teachers, involved and engaged parents and affordable postsecondary education. These are listed as the essential requirements in order for the child to succeed.

Penn describes that the education crisis is complex which is why C2C was launched last year to initiate changes. On its first year, the group focused on collecting and analyzing data in order to create a baseline for the seven areas listed above that need attention the most. 

Penn's article encourages attendees to view the results of The Cradle to Career Partnership education study which is scheduled to be released on Friday, January 29 from 9:30 AM until noon at the TEP building downtown at 88 E. Broadway. If you'd like to join, you can RSVP at this email address: mboulay@unitedwaytucson.org.