Study links student achievement to billions in economic activity

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 28 Oct, 00:03 · Archive

A University of South Carolina study suggests improving student achievement could generate nearly $208 billion in additional economic activity over 35 years.

A study from the University of South Carolina's Darla Moore School of Business links stronger student academic performance to higher wages, greater workforce productivity and long-term economic growth. Researchers examined the relationship between student achievement, earnings, employment and workforce productivity, finding that educational outcomes can have a direct impact on the state's economy.

If South Carolina reaches its 'Drive to 75' goal—aiming to have 75% of students meeting grade-level expectations by 2030—the state could generate nearly $208 billion in additional economic activity over the next 35 years. Research economist Dr. Joseph Von Nessen found that South Carolinians with a high school diploma earn about 25% more annually than those without one, whilst those with a bachelor's degree earn roughly 110% more. Every one-point increase in student proficiency is associated with approximately $5.3 million in additional annual earnings statewide.

Tobin Cassels, president of Southeastern Freight Lines, said 'the strongest economic development strategy is not attracting new businesses to the state. It's developing the talent sitting right here in our classrooms.' Business and education leaders say improved student performance is increasingly important as South Carolina works to meet workforce demands in manufacturing, technology and healthcare.

How it is being reported

• New study ties classroom success to billions in economic activityA new study from the University of South Carolina suggests improving student achievement could have economic benefits for South Carolina.WISTV · 27 Oct, 23:46
• New study ties classroom success to billions in economic activityA new study from the University of South Carolina’s Darla Moore School of Business suggests improving student achievement could have far-reaching economic benefits for South Carolina, linking stronger academic performance to higher wages, greater workforce productivity and long-term economic growth.Live5News · 27 Oct, 23:41

In this story: University of South Carolina · Darla Moore School of Business · Dr. Joseph Von Nessen · Tobin Cassels · Southeastern Freight Lines · South Carolina

This summary was written by AI from the headlines and standfirsts above, and states as fact only what at least two outlets report. How we use AI · Report a problem · Corrections log