As we launch into 2010, many of us are reflecting on the past year – what was accomplished, what was sacrificed and what opportunities still lie ahead. This is the time when we begin to compile our lists of resolutions for the New Year, such as becoming more health-conscious, spending more time with family and friends, and getting more actively involved in our communities.  Committing to do our part to improve the lives and opportunities of others is a powerful and personally ...

Early Learning As The Foundation For Academic Success When children are born, they immediately start absorbing the world around them and learning through relationships with their parents and caregivers. Research indicates that a child’s most important brain development occurs before the age of five – influencing their future growth and development. Quality early learning experiences provide the foundation for a child’s future success academically, emotionally and ...

A recent Gallup poll, titled “The Arizona We Want,” surveyed Arizonans across the state on a variety of different issues affecting the quality of life of citizens in both metropolitan and rural Arizona.  Most notably, the poll, commissioned by the Center for the Future of Arizona, found that people who live here tend to agree more than disagree, are deeply attached to and proud of the state, and are eager to support initiatives to make Arizona a better place to live. ...

Raising Student Achievement by Raising Expectations by Dr. Carol Peck With less than half of Arizona’s public high school graduates qualifying academically to enroll in public universities, it’s time to raise the bar in student achievement across the state. According to Dr. Carol Peck, president/CEO of Rodel Charitable Foundation, a critical component for raising student achievement is to raise expectations. “When we challenge and encourage our students to try ...