What’s the buzz? Tell me what’s happening?

I was in Washington DC right after the inauguration of our new President.  The hangovers and happiness were visible and the city felt electric.  Alchemy works with several organizations in the DC and we asked them what kinds of changes do they see coming with the new administration?  Underneath this – can America and our systems change?

• Yes – we think change will come.  The city looks and feels different but given the economy, that change will come more slowly. 
• Obama is great – but the system is the same.  It will take a lot to make the changes that are needed and perhaps the economy will create the urgency we need to make broadscale change.
• Every time there is a change in administration, this city fundamentally changes, physically.  Could the same thing happen to the rest of the country?
• Can you believe how many members of Congress and staff people have blackberries?  Its crazy!

 

Some of Alchemy’s client work focuses on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education.  Based on our meetings and their insights, we wonder:

• What’s the vision for public education in this country now?
• What role will states have in the conversation about the future?
• What will happen with NCLB – No Child Left Behind?
• Who will lead and what will it be like for public schools, NGO’s

 

Do you think the country is different after this election?  For better for worse?  How can we sustain the momentum and hope built in this election through rough and tough economic times?