Grant to fund research into the economic impact of the Common Core

The Common Core State Standards (CCSS) have been established to ensure that the education K-12 students receive is clear, consistent and aligned with college and work expectations, according to the initiative’s website.

Thanks to a $200,000 grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, ConvergeUS, the nonprofit arm of TechNet, will be able to research the CCSS. Using this funding, ConvergeUS will learn how states’ adoption of the Common Core will strengthen the long-term competitiveness of the U.S. economy, prepare students for emerging sectors and promote innovation in education. TechNet is dedicated to leveraging technology to advance social innovation.

"The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation is the gold standard when it comes to organizations working to improve public education in America," said Patrick Gusman, executive director of ConvergeUS. "This grant will help us facilitate improved uses of technology to enhance our education system."

TechNet’s research will lead to the creation of a white paper, which will also contain insight into business leaders’ views on education, technology and the workforce. Using this information, ConvergeUS can develop outreach activities to encourage and support the adoption of the CCSS.