Missouri

In the Kansas City region, a robust, cross-sector initiative known as Real World Learning (RWL) is transforming how high school students move from school into meaningful postsecondary pathways. Incubated by the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation and supported by partners such as Getting Smart, RWL is about more than traditional schooling—it’s about ensuring that all students graduate not just with a diploma, but with at least one Market Value Asset (MVA) that positions them for success in work, life, and further learning. Since its inception, the movement has grown into one of the most comprehensive regional efforts in the nation to link education and the local economy.

Launched in 2018–2019, RWL now includes more than 30 school districts and serves tens of thousands of students across the Kansas City metro area. By 2030, every student is expected to graduate with one or more MVAs, such as a work experience or internship, a client-connected project, an industry-recognized credential, or college credit. These experiences connect classroom learning to real-world application, helping students discover purpose and direction.

Across the region, students are tackling authentic community challenges through Client-Connected Projects, gaining professional experience through internships, and earning industry certifications that signal readiness to employers. Schools, businesses, and community organizations collaborate to design these opportunities, building a shared framework that promotes equity and tracks measurable outcomes. In 2021–22, over 75,000 students participated, and the share of graduates earning at least one MVA grew by 11 percentage points in a single year.

At its core, Real World Learning redefines what high school can be—relevant, connected, and purposeful. Students report becoming stronger communicators, collaborators, and problem solvers, while educators and employers see renewed alignment between learning and local opportunity. Kansas City’s Real World Learning initiative is turning high school into a true launchpad for opportunity, where every student graduates ready for both the world of work and the work of the world.

Watch. Be inspired. Share. The future of education is taking shape in Missouri — we invite you to be part of it. If you would like to learn more about these initiatives, or if you are interested in hosting a screening and discussion of these films, please contact us at info@whatschoolcouldbe.org.