At a time of rapid change and innovation, our education system is struggling to keep pace with this dynamic, digital world. Too often, young people are asked to learn 21st century skills with 20th century tools. Demands for a highly skilled and educated workforce are growing. The global marketplace is a reality. But the alarming fact is that we are still losing too many kids and wasting too much talent.

In response, ASCD has launched a public engagement campaign in communities across the country to encourage schools and communities to work together to ensure that each student has access to a 21st century education -- that is, a challenging curriculum in a healthy and supportive environment with an accountability system to match.

ASCD proposes a broader definition of achievement and accountability that promotes the development of children who are healthy, safe, engaged, supported, and challenged. Educating the Whole Child: The New Learning Compact asks local, state, and national policymakers to support comprehensive approaches to learning that focus on educating the whole child.

* Each student enters schools healthy and learns about and practices a healthy lifestyle.
* Each student learns in an intellectually challenging environment that is physically and emotionally safe for students and adults.
* Each student is actively engaged in learning and is connected to the school and broader community.
* Each student has access to personalized learning and is supported by qualified, caring adults.
* Each student is challenged by a well-balanced curriculum and is prepared for success in college or further study and for employment in a global environment.