NMSI advocates what we call a “scale-up” approach, whereby we identify programs and ideas with proven results and provide the means to apply them on a national scale. A program should systematically and successfully address broad outcome measures that will likely have positive and measurable effects even beyond its primary objectives. Impact should be statistically significant from past performance and of sufficient size so as to be readily observable.

“By starting with proven programs, the initiative can fill in learning gaps. Despite pushes from Mr. Bush and such senators as Kay Bailey Hutchison of Texas and Lamar Alexander of Tennessee, Capitol Hill has been strangely slow in expanding programs that get science into the classrooms. So we hope Congress takes note. Fortunately, the private sector is not waiting.”

-Dallas Morning News editorial March 12, 2007