Academic excellence refers to a student’s ability to perform, achieve and excel in scholastic activities. Achieving academic excellence requires that schools have knowledgeable district leaders, effective and empowered teachers, and the resources necessary to inspire learning in every student. In pursuit of these goals, we develop and advance specific policy proposals to help reduce the achievement gap and lift educational and career opportunities for all students through engagement with lawmakers, state officials, local educators, business and nonprofit leaders, and the media. Additionally, now more than ever it is imperative to connect the classroom to the business world -- this way, students can learn in dynamic ways that position them for success. Industry benefits as well, since work-based learning helps to develop a Connecticut-grown workforce deep in skill, talent and diversity. Our goals include creating a mutually rewarding school-business network – one where the business provides a full continuum of work-based learning experiences and the student provides value and work product to the business. Career-connected learning allows students to see the connection between the classroom and the working world; it enables them to see the potential for their future.