We invest little in early childhood education. We treat teachers with little respect, and we take critical subjects out of the school curriculum. This is a costly societal mistake in a world where reading, ciphering, and thinking with these skills is increasingly needed for employment and life’s enjoyment.

Dr. White focuses on issues in public policy, economic development, education, and housing. He has specific interests in job creation and education in central cities. He teaches courses in "Public Policy Analysis" and "Housing Markets and Public Policy." Dr. White has authored or co-authored over 160 articles and reports and co-authored or co-edited six books.

This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at http://ted.com/tedx