Young Leaders Panel: Changing Expectations and Outcomes Merita Irby, Moderator Forum for Youth Investment April 18, 2012 #readyby21

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Developmentally On Track

Hope, Engagement & Well-Being Dropouts not included Percent Engaged But only half of 5th through 12th graders are hopeful, only half are engaged in school, and only one-third are thriving. And what we see is that this picture gets worse over time. In the high school years, it begins to look like it flattens out and even gets a little better -- but at that point, those who are disengaged have often dropped out. This is a survey of students in school – so the dropouts are not captured. Grade in School 14

A Disconnection…or an Opportunity? Nearly 1/5 of young people between 16 and 24 are not in school and not working. “These youth also represent an opportunity for the nation to tap the talents of millions of potential leaders and productive workers at a time when America’s skills gap is significant… Opportunity Road: The Promise and Challenge of America’s Forgotten Youth, Civic Enterprises & America’s Promise Alliance opportunity roaD The Promise and Challenge of America’s Forgotten Youth A report by Civic Enterprises & America’s Promise Alliance

“Opportunity Youth” are Confident and Hopeful, but Need Additional Supports Nearly 3 in 4 youth are very confident or hopeful that they will be able to achieve their goals in life. Nearly 2 in 3 agree with the statement “I have a goal to finish high school or college and I know that I can achieve it.” 77% agreeing with the statement that getting a good education and job is their own responsibility, and whether they succeed depends on their own effort. But support is critical… Lots of help & support? 52% feel very confident On their own? only 37% feel very confident Opportunity Road: The Promise and Challenge of America’s Forgotten Youth Opportunity Youth Are Confident or Hopeful about Achieving their Goals, and Accept Responsibility for Their Futures, but Need Additional Supports

Panelists Ashley Evans Lee Gray Oasis College Connection Jenny Mills Nicole Williams Wes Weems Oasis College Mentor Corps Antonio Sanchez Ready by 21 Leadership Council