United States Education

America’s schools are failing to provide all students with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed beyond high school—in college, career, and life. That’s why we’re supporting the work of our many public and private partners to increase high school graduation and college readiness rates in the United States.

A college degree or professional certificate is critical for most young people to achieve success and security in today’s labor market. The goal of our strategy is to significantly increase the number of young people who complete their postsecondary education—supporting millions of Americans who have the will to get an education with the way to obtain one.

Millions of young people face financial challenges in their pursuit of a college degree. The foundation funds several scholarship programs to help ease this financial burden, especially for low-income students and those committed to improving the lives of others through public service and leadership.

More than half the children in Washington state enter kindergarten without the skills they need to succeed in school. We're investing in programs and partnerships to help more children—from birth to age 5—gain access to quality early learning experiences.