As we approach the 21st century, American students must be prepared for an increasingly global job market. Family, business, and community involvement in education can make a significant difference in preparing our children to succeed and get on the right track.

Consider these six priority educational action areas on which you could focus your America Goes Back to School event or long-term project:

* Making schools safe and drug free;

* Recruiting and preparing quality teachers;

* Modernizing schools;

* Expanding after-school programs;

* Getting high standards into every classroom;and

* Increasing pathways to college and careers.

Educational Possibilities -- Past and Present

The turn of a millennium is an extraordinary event. It is a time to look back at the past, and forward to the future. Listed below are some of the most influential educational events of the past two centuries. These events changed the course of education in our country, and their effects are still felt today. Also below are a number of recent educational policies that will undoubtedly change the face of education in the coming millennium. Use this unique time, and this list of historical and current events, to reflect on your community--its treasures, its needs, and its schools. Discuss how America has become the society it is at the close of the 20th century, and what we must do to ensure equal access to excellent education in the 21st century. Organize your America Goes Back to School partnership around examining the educational history of your community, evaluating current performance standards, and planning for the future of education.