This report by the Center for American Progress offers several considerations for federal policymakers and educational stakeholders to improve the opportunities and outcomes for k–12 students. The report is undergirded by the theory of action that equity-oriented policymaking must be developed in partnership with everyday people to sharpen the lens of how these policies will impact historically underserved and under-resourced communities.

The report focuses on the following five areas: (1) applying an explicit race equity lens to policy development, (2) preparing all students for college and the future workforce, (3) modernizing and elevating the teaching profession, (4) dramatically increasing investments in public schools and improving the equity of existing investments, and (5) bringing a balanced approach to charter school policy.