2014 National Convening Skills Presenations Portland Plan | Page 39
Thriving
Educated
Youth
Goal: Ensure that youth (ages 0–25) of all cultures, ethnicities,
abilities and economic backgrounds have the necessary support and
opportunities to thrive — both as individuals and as contributors to a
healthy community and prosperous, sustainable economy.
This will be achieved by focusing on actions and policies that:
Build a culture of high expectations and
achievement for all Portland youth. Expectations
expressed directly and indirectly by teachers,
counselors, administrators and community members
help shape the expectations that youth have for
themselves.
Encourage all Portlanders to share in a sense
of ownership for youth success. The economy
and community all benefit when children and youth
flourish academically, physically, emotionally and
socially.
Create complete neighborhoods and
communities that support youth success. Youth
need safe homes, access to physical and social
resources, and caring adults outside of as well as inside
the classroom.
Support facilities, systems and programs that
meet 21st century opportunities and challenges.
Buildings, technology and programs must be
accessible, durable and adaptable to meet emerging
needs.
www.pdxplan.com | April 2012
Achieving this goal requires focus and collaboration among
a broad spectrum of community partners, including
educational institutions, businesses, public agencies and
community-based organizations. The Cradle to Career
Partnership in Multnomah County has committed to
driving durable and systemic change through a new “civic
infrastructure” of partners who share a common agenda and
are ready to align resources around three strategic priorities:
1. Eliminate disparities in children and youth success;
2. Link community and family supports to children and
youth success; and
3. Ensure that every child enters school prepared to learn.
Cradle to Career is the cornerstone of this Thriving Educated
Youth strategy, and is embodied in the second of the four
strategy elements. Additional guiding policies and five-year
actions complement and support the collective efforts of
the Cradle to Career partnership.
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