TY FOR TCAPS

When it comes to educational equity, let’s start saying “opportunity” instead of “at risk.”

– opportunity kids > at risk kids
– opportunity funding > at risk funding
– opportunity schools > at risk schools
– opportunity reports > at risk reports
– opportunity dashboards > at risk dashboards
– opportunity youth > at risk youth

Why?

Because it puts the focus on potential – not just challenges.

During my fellowship with the FrameWorks Institute, I learned about the power of the social science of framing – what to say, how to say it, what to leave unsaid – to help boost public understanding, shift attitudes, and build support for critical issues – like educational equity. 

FrameWorks has just released a new strategic brief, “Connections and Communities: Reframing How We Talk About Opportunity Youth.” 

The brief offers new narrative and communication strategies to positively shift public perceptions of Opportunity Youth. 

It emphasizes the importance of strong community connections, supportive relationships, and access to resources in fostering the wellbeing and success of these young people. 

It’s time to recognize that ALL young people need support to succeed. 

 But Opportunity Youth face a steeper climb. 

Let’s work together to ensure they have the resources to navigate their path and reach their goals.

Read the Connections & Communities brief.

And then check out a few ideas on how we can move the needle on our at risk opportunity 3rd graders (50% of Traverse City’s at risk opportunity 3rd graders are not proficient in reading)