Creating Social Entrepreneurs: The Catalyst for Reform of Public Education

Abstract

Introduction

The majority of public school children (K–12) are underserved educationally. They are not reaching their academic potential, as evidenced by high dropout rates, low college graduation numbers and abysmal academic achievement. Historic efforts to improve schools have rarely achieved their intent. Current methods of addressing the needs for improved school and student performance are not functioning as intended.

The social impact of an unhealthy public education system is vast and far-reaching, and previous attempts to fill the gaps have failed for the most part. While some legislation has been approved to provide policy to support reform in public education, this policy is meaningless unless carried out by appropriately trained educational leadership.

Education leaders who embrace the tenets of social entrepreneurship are able to envision successful strategies and programs that have a high probability of improving the education sector. Few current leaders understand that schools are a revenue-generating business with a social-value-generating structure.

Federal funds to support public education are flowing at the highest levels in history. Schools are able to invest in innovative programs to enhance learning environments. Few leaders in public schools have awareness, much less an understanding, of how to leverage these funds.