'Rigorous standards in the classroom are key to making sure we have a skilled workforce'  

Ensuring that American students are prepared to compete in the global economy is a priority for Mark Grier, Prudential's vice chairman. Since 2009, he has served on the board of directors at Achieve, a leading independent nonprofit education reform organization, and was recently appointed to chairman of the board. Grier is dedicated to advocating for college and career readiness, and shares Achieve's mission of raising academic standards and graduation requirements, improving assessments and strengthening accountability nationwide.

"Achieve plays a critical role in ensuring that U.S students are equipped with the knowledge and skills they need to compete for jobs in an increasingly competitive global marketplace," says Grier. "As a nation, we must continue to push for higher academic standards and invest in our students' futures. Rigorous standards in the classroom are key to making sure we have a skilled workforce."   

Grier is also a strong supporter of the Common Core State Standards and the Next Generation Science Standards, which specify what students should know and be able to do in each grade to be prepared after high school. The new standards include the core academic knowledge and cultivate the kind of problem solving, communications and teamwork skills needed for students to succeed in today's workplace and become the next generation of leaders. 

Interested in more information or want to speak with Mark? Contact Bob DeFillippo.

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