CYCLING ACROSS IOWA FOR STRONG AMERICAN SCHOOLS
By Elizaebth Snyder, Strong American Schools

Ames, Iowa- Strong American Schools is sponsoring a team of bike riders who will be cycling across Iowa to raise awareness for the need for K-12 education reform.  The team of community activists will be riding in the Des Moines Register's Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa (RAGBRAI) and will be appearing in Ames on Tuesday, July 22nd.

Two-thirds of new jobs being created in today's economy require higher education or advanced training. By 2012 Iowa will have between 150,000 and 200,000 more jobs than workers; and at least half of these occupations will require postsecondary education or training.  However, only about half of Iowa students who enroll in 4-year colleges after high school manage to earn a bachelor's degree within six years.

Strong American Schools is a nonpartisan public awareness and advocacy effort aimed at elevating discussion amongst America's leaders about the need for education reform. The organization believes three common-sense solutions should be included in education reform: effective teachers in every classroom; increased time and support for student learning; and rigorous standards.

Members of the team will available at the festival and throughout the bike tour to discuss why Iowans should make education a top priority in the 2008 presidential election.

Date:               Tuesday, July 22nd 2008
Time:               10:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Location:         Strong American Schools booth & tent, Iowa State Center Parking Lot,
Note:               Members of the team and officials from Strong American Schools will be available throughout the day to discuss why education reform is crucial to securing the economic future of Iowa and America.