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State Opportunity Index

Strengthening the Link Between Education and Opportunity

 

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On average, an education after high school is one of the best tools available for achieving economic mobility. Yet what is true on average does not always translate to individual outcomes. For many, an investment in education does not lead to the kind of meaningful work and economic security they had hoped for. Employers, too, are struggling to match talent with jobs.

 

The State Opportunity Index was developed to help states build a stronger connection between education after high school and equitable pathways to opportunity so students realize the full value of their education and employers have the workforce they need to fill high-demand jobs. Designed to guide state progress in five priority areas, the index helps states assess how well they are leveraging post-high school education — including degrees, certificates, and other credentials — to strengthen workforce competitiveness and pathways to opportunity.

 

 

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State-by-State Profiles

Profiles for each of the 50 states plus Washington, D.C., provide a breakdown of state progress for return on investment and the five priority areas.

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Voices From the Field

A distinguished group of experts served as advisors for the State Opportunity Index. Three of them share their experiences working on the report and explain its potential for impact.

A portrait of Michael Collins wearing a dark sweater and blue dress shirt. There is a white stenciled play button in the fore front.

Michael Collins

Vice President
Jobs for the Future

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A protrait of Wil Del Pilar, Ph.D. wearing a dark blazer and black and white dress shirt. There is a white stenciled play button in the fore front.

Wil Del Pilar

Senior Vice President
The Education Trust

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A protrait of Wil Del Pilar, Ph.D. wearing a dark blazer and black and white dress shirt. There is a white stenciled play button in the fore front.

Mamie Voight

President and CEO
Institute for Higher Education Policy

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Frequently Asked Questions

Strada researchers answer key questions about the State Opportunity Index, what it measures, and how it can be used by states and important stakeholders.

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If you have questions about the State Opportunity Index, please email SOI@stradaeducation.org.

*Updated October 2024

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