Create West Virginia

Consider choosing areas of excellence to invest in that set their students apart in highly valued creative and technical disciplines such as computer programming, web design, multimedia development or performing arts.

Communicate success stories from the region; keep successful former students connected to the community regardless of where they live.

Develop a culture of curiosity and learning by inviting former students who have excelled back for speaking engagements and Q & A sessions with students.

Develop a partnership with a nearby college or university to set up college student mentor relationships, frequent college days, visits to the campus.

Expand career days and highlight job opportunities with high-growth, new economy potential. Clearly outline the educational attainment required to get there.

Invest in Advanced Placement course offerings

Consider a Promise Scholarship-style incentive program for West Virginians to pursue advanced degrees in new economy fields in math, science, engineering and technology.

Consider a targeted Promise Scholarship program that provides additional scholarship funding for students majoring in math, science and technology fields.

Create learning incentives for non-traditional students to complete their degrees

Dept of Education: Ensure that West Virginia’s leadership in K-12 technology education and integration remains among the best in the country.

Develop special funding opportunities for any school districts interested in setting up new economy curriculum in technology, math, science or the arts.

Evaluate viability of a West Virginia School for the Performing Arts or regional arts schools supported by multiple districts.

Increase investment in summer arts, science and technology academies to expose West Virginia high school students to cutting edge ideas, mentors, internships and other learning opportunities.

Invest in Internet-enabled services that reduce service time and improve quality of service to constituents. Ensure that citizens know the availability and benefits of these online services.

Dept of Education: Open up new doors to Advanced Placement courses via online learning in partnership with colleges and universities.

Strengthen West Virginia testing standards to match more rigorous national standards in order to gain a more realistic view of how prepared our children are compared to peers across the country.

Create special events that reach out to non-traditional students to de-mystify and encourage lifelong learning opportunities.

Develop extensive internship programs with local businesses.

Develop partnerships with local communities to deliver “idea festivals”, college experience days, creative arts programs and other innovative offerings.

Invest in centers of new economy excellence, delivering research, training, conferences and program offerings with a goal towards world class thought leadership.

Partner with the business community to develop stimulating new creative arts program offerings for local communities.

Develop incentives, however large or small, to encourage employees to complete degrees or pursue advanced degrees.

Proactively develop internship opportunities and engage colleges and universities to fill openings.