July 2023
The Future of Nevada’s Industry: The Imperative of K-12 Accountability
T
HE VITALITY AND COMPETITIVENESS OF NEVADA’S RETAIL INDUSTRY hinge on a well-prepared and adaptable workforce. This starts with a strong educational foundation, particularly at the K-12 level. As employers, educators, and policymakers, we have an obligation to ensure our young people are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and work ethic they need to succeed in the modern retail environment. This responsibility requires us not merely to invest in education but also to hold ourselves accountable for the results. Accountability in K-12 education encompasses a broad spectrum of factors, including academic achievement, student growth, graduation rates, and the preparation of students for post-secondary success or entry into the workforce. In Nevada, we face significant challenges in education. The state ranks near the bottom nationally in education
By Bryan Wachter
Bryan Wachter quality and student achievement. Despite some improvements, our public schools still lag behind those in other states in key areas like reading and math proficiency. This situation can undermine our efforts to build a vibrant retail sector that contributes positively to our economy and society. An accountable K-12 education system is one where schools are held to high standards of performance and outcomes. It is a system where teachers are supported and encouraged to innovate while also being held responsible for their
students’ learning. It is a system where parents are engaged and informed about their children’s progress and where students are challenged and inspired to reach their full potential. But accountability doesn’t stop at the school gates. The retail industry must also play its part in nurturing and shaping the future workforce. Retailers can contribute by forging partnerships with schools to provide real-world learning experiences, offering internships, and mentoring students. They can also advocate for policies and Continued on page 2
INSIDE Industry Updates.....................2 Advancing Fair Competition in the Credit Card Industry for Small Businesses................3 Nevada’s GOP Grapples with Conspiracy Theory Challenges...................4 We Need You to Run for Office............................5 Understanding Nevada’s AB175........................8 Independence Day Sales, Average Spending...................9