P21 Joins Forces with Battelle for Kids

The Partnership for 21st Century Learning (P21) has joined forces with Battelle for Kids (BFK) as the next phase of its nearly two decades of creating 21st century learning experiences that help all learners acquire the knowledge and skills they need to thrive in a world where change is constant and learning never stops.

P21’s existing networks will join BFK and continue to advance 21st century learning for every student. Founded in 2002, P21 began a national conversation about the skills needed for work, life and citizenship in the 21st century, including the “4C’s” of creativity, communication, critical thinking and collaboration.

Over the past 16 years, P21 has built a coalition of like-minded organizations on 21st century readiness and broadened its initial focus on K−12 schools to include early learning, beyond school, and global school environments. P21 has also operated an Exemplar Program of K−12 schools and early and beyond school organizations that provide 21st century learning reflecting attributes such as global competency and the 4C’s. Additionally, the organization has hosted an annual national convening and has international partnerships committed to 21st century learning.

BFK, founded in 2001, collaborates with school systems and communities to realize the power and promise of 21st century education for every learner. Examples include the nationally recognized Portrait of a Graduate community visioning process and BFK’s national network, EdLeader21, including more than 220 district and school leaders dedicated to 21st century education. BFK is headquartered in Columbus, Ohio with offices in Tucson, AZ.

“P21 is excited to join Battelle for Kids and its talented team. Our organizations’ deep alignment on mission and vision and BFK’s extensive work with school communities make it the right fit for P21’s 21st century learning agenda,” said David Young, chair of P21’s executive board, and CEO of Participate.

BFK President and CEO Karen Garza said, “Our shared history and brand stand for leadership and innovation on behalf of all learners. We are excited for P21 to join BFK as we continue to support school systems and communities in helping students thrive in our ever-changing world. Our commitment is that each and every learner has 21st century education experiences that prepare them for the local and global economy.”