for funders
Linked Learning advances excellence and equity in education—and this innovation has been demonstrated at scale. Because it combines the power of college and career preparation, and works at a systems level, Linked Learning is embraced as the high school approach of choice for a growing number of districts and communities.
Since 2009, educators, employers, and civic and philanthropic leaders have been working together to make engaging, high-quality learning experiences available to all young people through Linked Learning.
advancing interests
Linked Learning’s relevance to students and proven outcomes appeal to a range of grantmakers, including those committed to:
- Education (K–12 and postsecondary)
- Youth and family development
- Workforce readiness
- Community and economic growth
- Social justice
In just over a decade, Linked Learning has grown from a California experiment to a burgeoning national movement.
Certification helps ensure Linked Learning is implemented with high quality. Students benefit from—and take pride in—pathways that are recognized with Gold Certification.
Our goal: One million young people in Gold certified Linked Learning pathways by 2030.
Driving quality, expansion, and sustainability
The Linked Learning Alliance joins with funders to advance four core strategies developed with the Linked Learning field.
Expand in high schools: Building on success to gain adoption of Linked Learning in more school districts serving student groups underrepresented in college and high-wage careers.
Bridge the gap to postsecondary: Increasing the number of college and K–12 district partnerships and helping students navigate transitions to higher education and earn postsecondary degrees.
Engage employers in work-based learning: Attracting more business partners to grow the diverse pipeline of skilled workers that regional economies need.
Influence national adoption: Sharing knowledge and helping local communities, state and federal agencies, and other key stakeholders identify and establish policies that support high-quality college and career pathways.
CONNECTING THE CLASSROOM TO CAREERS
Naomi Post, Head of U.S. Community-Based Programs at The Atlantic Philanthropies, discusses the foundation's major investment to expand Oakland Unified School District's Linked Learning program and provide opportunities for young people to pursue health care professions in Alameda County.
