The Inland Empire
A Region of Consequence
Spanning 28,000 square miles with over 4.7 million residents, the Inland Empire is larger than West Virginia in size and more populous than 25 U.S. states. Once rooted in agriculture, the region has evolved into a dynamic economic hub, fueled by a diverse population, strong educational institutions, expanding public-private partnerships, and growing investment interest. Yet, the Inland Empire faces significant challenges: only 53% of high school graduates enroll in a postsecondary institution, fewer adults hold bachelor’s degrees compared to state and national averages, and economic mobility remains limited.
These challenges are not just local concerns—they have broader implications for California and beyond. The Inland Empire reflects the state and nation’s demographic future, making it a proving ground for policies and strategies that could be replicated at scale. Transforming conditions here would not only improve regional economic vitality but also create a model for addressing educational and workforce disparities nationwide. The stakes are high, and the urgency to act is clear: the Inland Empire’s success is tied to the future competitiveness of the state and the nation.
Recent News & Announcements
Education Insight: The PTA’s Journey from Tradition to Modern Advocacy
About This Episode Season 4. Episode 6.-In this episode of Education Insight, we take a deep dive into the 125-year legacy of the Parent Teacher Association (PTA) and its...
Education Insight: California’s Push for Phone-Free Classrooms
About This Episode Season 4. Episode 5.In this episode of Education Insight, we dive into the implications of Assembly Bill 3216, also known as the Phone-Free Schools Act,...
Education Insight: Reviving Local Journalism in the Inland Empire: A Community Effort
About This Episode Season 4. Episode 5.As local newspapers and radio news reports continue to disappear across the U.S., many communities are finding themselves without...
The Transformative Power of Postsecondary Education in California’s Inland Empire
In California's Inland Empire, education is more than just a pathway to personal success—it's a driving force behind regional economic growth and social well-being. Our...
GIA Announces 2024 Toward a Shared Vision Award Winners
Growing Inland Achievement (GIA) has announced the winners for the 2024 Toward a Shared Vision Awards, an annual celebration of individuals and groups who are advancing...
Education Insight: Rethinking the Role of Testing in K-12 Education
About This Episode Season 4. Episode 4.In the latest episode of Education Insight, we delve into the challenges and complexities of K-12 testing, a critical topic that...
Education Insight: The Great Success of Continuation High Schools
About This Episode Season 4. Episode 3.In this episode of Education Insight, we explore the remarkable success of California's continuation high schools, focusing on...
Growing Inland Achievement Awarded $1,035,000 Grant from ECMC Foundation
Growing Inland Achievement (GIA) has received a $1,035,000 grant from the ECMC Foundation to help colleges and universities in the region improve equitable access to...
Share Your Story: We Want to Feature You in Our Video
Inland Empire College Students, We want you to be part of something special! We’re launching a project about sharing your story—because your experiences, challenges, and...
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