It used to be educationally valuable to use Styrofoam balls to create a fairly basic representation of the solar system or to study simple earth science through a paper mache volcano craft project. Likewise, chalk and erasers were precious tools of the trade for teachers, while yellow number two pencils and plastic protractors were the standard of choice for students. Lunch hall dining used to consist of fast-food quality meals–but not anymore.

A wide-ranging consensus in America articulates a need to improve the education system to help students today become more accomplished in life and careers for the 21st century. Major concern originates from the fear that we will not be able to compete with the rest of the developing world for future jobs and innovation.

Read more of my article about The Green Schoolhouse Series on Getting Smart.