Building Inclusive Pathways to Design & STEM Careers.
 
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2 Blocks.

How Much of a Difference Can 2 Blocks From the Most Innovative Square Mile on the Planet Make?

From our research a lot!  Cambridge is a booming epicenter for Innovation. However, the City’s opportunities are not equally shared. Too few Cambridge educated youth move towards innovative careers in our own backyard. Our research has shown that greater access to educational opportunities will lead to the change we seek. That said, our educational system was designed for a different era. The incremental top down solutions have not been satisfactory or sufficient. It’s time for a change!

How Can This…

  1. Cambridge is home to the Most Innovative Square Mile on the Planet

  2. Two of the World’s most elite universities are within miles of each other in Cambridge

  3. Cambridge Public Schools’ $35,100 per pupil spending is the 2nd highest in the state (source: Department of Education as of November 3, 2022)

    1-3, Highlight the unique advantages of the City of Cambridge.  

and This Both Be True?

  1. Cambridge’s poverty rate is higher than the state average of 12.3% vs. 10.4  (source: US Census)

  2. Less than 5% of Cambridge’s black population works in the innovation economy (source: Cambridge Community Foundation)

  3. Fewer than 30% of Black and Latinx 9th graders obtained a post-secondary degree of any kind within 6 years of graduating CRLS (source: Cambridge Community Foundation)

    1 - This signifies not everyone is benefitting equally from the city's economic growth and innovation.

    2,3 - Demonstrate significant racial and socioeconomic disparities in educational achievement and access to the innovation economy. Highlight the need for greater support and resources to ensure that all students have equal access to educational opportunities.

Amazingness Is Happening Without Us

We are Cambridge Public Schools students and iFp Teen Innovators. Many of us live within walking distance of Kendall Square - the most innovative square mile on the planet. However, the amazingness is happening without us. Are we not the future of this City? If so, why are we not being groomed to be future leaders in Kendall?

We believe regardless of one’s starting point if truly inspired - one can develop the innovative mindsets, creativity, and passion desired in the innovation economy. One of our primary sources of inspiration, our educational system, was designed for an era that no longer exists. To cultivate the curiosity and skills required, we need a 21st-century educational system that’s relevant, more personalized, and inspires learning.

It’s Time for Those Most Impacted 2 Have a Say!

We can no longer sit and accept what’s given. Our future which also means the City’s future is at stake. It’s time for us - those impacted the most 2 have a say.

 

Voices of 2 Blocks: Research & Podcast

 

Voices of 2 Blocks: Research & Podcast

 

Voices of 2 Blocks: Research & Podcast

 

Let’s Bridge the Gap

We are calling on all allies committed to an equitable and just future to join the 2 Blocks movement. We aim to build bridges between Cambridge Public Schools and the Kendall Square community only two blocks away.  If successful, Cambridge will be positioned to lay claim to the most innovative square mile and school district on the planet. We seek allies to: 

  • Support policies that distribute resources more equitably.

  • Support removal of structural barriers to advance equity in education.

  • Build supportive pathways that encourage curiosity, motivation, and expression.

  • Provide access to key tools that will enable students to ride the 21st century innovation wave.

In solidarity,

iFp Teen Innovators

 

2 Blocks Resources

 

The Creative Minds Behind 2 Blocks