On behalf of Dropout Nation, its contributors and contributing editors, I thank you for reading, commenting, sharing, and spreading the word about this magazine and its mission of transforming American public education for all of our kids. And we thank God for blessing us with opportunities to shed light on the nation’s education crisis, and for stirring discussion about solutions for givng our kids schools fit for their futures.
I always say and write this, but we must always keep in mind that what we do is not — and should never be — for personal glory. Certainly it is always wonderful to receive praise and attention for what we do. But this isn’t about us; after all, each of us has already been (and continues to be) provided with so much from our Creator. What we must all do now is be a blessing to others, especially children who deserve to get the education they need to open doors to wonderful futures. Each day that a young man or woman drops out, it is an unavoidable tragedy. We must do so much more to be blessings to all of our kids.
As readers, you are responsible for Dropout Nation’s success. And God, along with your concern for all kids, is what brought you to these pages. As your editor, I look forward to helping each and every one of you do the most-important thing we can do in our lives: Give kids brighter futures. And we will keep our promise to you: Serve as your eyes on the reform of American public education; speak truth to influence; be the conscience of a movement.
Once again, Dropout Nation look forward to your thoughts and your energy in the New Year — and our kids need your energy (and ours) too. Let’s keep our commitment to giving all kids the opportunity to write their own stories. As Robert Frost would say, we have miles to go and promises to keep to all of our children, everywhere they are.
Thank you. And Happy New Year!