IDEA's Organizational Strategy

Download IDEA's guiding strategy document: The Vision, Strategy, Learning, and Potential Impact of IDEA (204 KB PDF)

Education is a key site of social transformation. And while it is clear to most of us that our education “house” needs major remodeling, there is good news. Americans can create the conditions where youth are meaningfully involved in their learning and prepared to participate in a democratic, multiracial, and sustainable society.

In fact, we already are meeting this challenge. It’s just that most folks don’t know about it, because our current remodeling efforts aren’t very inclusive, coordinated, or strategic. It’s as if everyone has decided that the house needs some work, but then began our own projects without talking with one another.

And that is where IDEA can help. By building a powerful network around a vital message and focusing energy on what is working, IDEA can help transform the remodeling process.

IDEA starts by helping youth, parents, educators, community leaders, researchers, and decision- makers get into conversation about what matters most. Then, we help folks make more informed decisions by showcasing the schools, teachers, and community projects that deserve our attention. Finally, we share the resources, consulting, and research needed to support a useful remodeling process, while staying connected to the real lives and needs of youth and families across the country.