For years social scientists have documented the fast growth of the U.S. Latino demographic, highlighting how young it is compared with the general population and sometimes lamenting its low educational-attainment rates relative to other groups. Many foresee a work force that could be less educated at a time when 21st-century skills and knowledge — critical thinking; research; leadership; teamwork; civic literacy; and multicultural, scientific, and environmental awareness, among many other intellectual assets — are more in demand. The demographic shift, the most somber critics suggest, portends serious social and economic consequences for the nation.
But the weaknesses these observers see in education for Latinos are in fact weaknesses in the education of all Americans. And remedying them is a national challenge that will help the country at large. It is time, therefore, to elevate the educational attainment of Latinos to the level of national policy imperative.
Read more at The Chronicle of Higher Education: http://chronicle.com/article/The-Latino-Agenda-Is-the/236444