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Findings F
    Fi di    From St t id
                  Statewide
Interviews With Oregon s Youth
                Oregon’s




            Grove Insight
             July, 2009


                                 1
Methodology
                             gy
This analysis is based on 74 interviews among students, ages 13-20
                                               students      13 20,
interested in taking part in the Project 2059.

The online survey was conducted June 29th – July 13th using an opt in email
                                                               opt-in
format.

The survey as a whole has a margin of error of 10.4 p
          y                    g                    percentage p
                                                            g points at
the 95% level of confidence.




                                                                              2
The O
Th Oregon Landscape: H
          L d        How A
                         Are
        We Doing?




           Grove Insight
            July, 2009


                               3
Views o the S a e
  e s of e State




                    4
Project 2059 Youth Are Divided in Their Perception of
               the Direction of the State
Though They Are Much More Optimistic Than Adults in Oregon, a Near Majority
             of Whom Say the State Is Off on the Wrong Track
          Generally speaking, do you think that things in Oregon are going in the right
      direction, or do you feel things have gotten pretty seriously off on the wrong track?



                             Not sure
                              24%
                                                                   Right direction
                                                                     g
                                                                       38%




                        Wrong track
                           38%




                                                                                              5
While Students Are Divided Over Oregon’s Direction,
 Over Two-Thirds Feel Optimistic About the Future
       Two Thirds


         Would you say you feel optimistic or pessimistic about Oregon’s future?



                    Not sure,
                      11%

 Pessimistic, 22%


                                                    Optimistic 68%
                                                    Optimistic,




                                                                                   6
These Young Oregonians Clearly
          Value Their Communities
          V l Th i C         iti
                                                              How important is community in your life?
                                    Net Important
                                         84%

                                                                              Somewhat
                                                                            important, 31%
                                            Very important,
                                                 53%
                                                                                       Not too
                                                                                    important, 8%




                                                                                      Not important
                                                                         Not sure, 5%  at all, 3%


                                                                                       Net Not Important
                                                                                             11%




Word Cloud created from the text of the question                                                    7
   “Define what a community means to you.”
They Define Community By Proximity, Cooperation, Shared
                 Resources and Goals
                                     Define h t
                                     D fi what community means to you.
                                                     it        t

“Community is a group of
 people that care for one
another regardless of race                 “A group of people that
                                            A
                                                                            “A group of people li i
                                                                                      f     l living
and culture. This group of               come together because of
                                                                             and working together.”
 people work together to                  a common interest/goal.”
 ensure peace, harmony,
        and joy .”




“A shared group of p p within
             g p people                                                         “Community to me is
                                                                                 Community
   the same general region that          “Community t me means a
                                         “C         it to
                                                                              something that signifies
  share common living desires,            network of people that not
                                                                           togetherness. People trying
      operate in close quarters,          only live in the same area
 promote community growth and                                                to help people. Enjoying
                                          but works together to build
  connection, and build a strong                                            life. And keeping things in
                                          relationships with others.”
                                                      p
relationship around th i region”
    l ti   hi        d their   i ”                                                  good shape.”
                                                                                         shape




                                         “To me communities are groups        “Community to me is a
                                           of people with something in     cooperation among people
  “Community is a way to                  common, a school, interest, a        to collectively come
                                          neighborhood. What makes a
    come together and                     community strong is the n that    together and advocate or
    accomplish goals ”
               goals.                       group working together to      fight for what is right, using
                                                                                             right
                                            develop and strengthen n          their numbers as their
                                         whatever their common factor.”               power.”
                                                                                                            8
The Issue of
 Education
 Ed    ti




               9
As We Saw With the One-on-One Statewide Interviews,
   Students Cite Education, the Environment and the Economy
                  As the Most Important Issues
       And, As Would Be Expected of Young Students, Education Heads the List
                                What issue listed below is the most important to you personally?


             Education                                                     41%
                                                                                     +19
      The environment                                22%

          The economy                        15%
                                       9%
Equal rights/opportunity
                                      8%
           Job creation

        Physical fitness         3%

 Government spending
 G        t     di              1%

               Not sure         1%

                           0%                 20%                     40%                    60%
                                                                                                   10
These Youth Think Oregon Could Be Doing a Better Job With
                   the School System
      Though Over Three-Quarters Hold Soft Views of Schools’ Performance

                          Overall, do you think schools in Oregon are doing an excellent job,
                                       a good j b only a f i j b or a poor j b?
                                              d job, l     fair job        job?



                     5%
Excellent job
                                                                                     Net Positive
                                                                                     N t P iti
                                                                                        36%
                                                   31%
   Good job


Only fair job                                                       46%
                                                                                     Net Negative
                                                                                         61%
    Poor job
                                15%


    Not sure
                     3%


                0%            20%                    40%                    60%                 80%
                                                                                                      11
Among Students Who Say Oregon Schools Are Doing a Good
             Job, Many Credit t e Teachers
                   a y C ed t the eac e s
    What are some examples of how schools in Oregon have been doing a good job?



   “How the teachers are teaching.”             “Passionate teachers and administrators.”




            “Teachers care personally about the
          students and the student’s needs on an             “At least at my school I think that all
                                                                            y
        individual basis and really enjoy teaching.”           of the teachers make an honest
                                                              effort to educate resistant students
                                                                 and go out of their way to help
                                                                   those that are struggling.”
                                                                                      gg g




                                   “I said the schools in Oregon are doing a good job
                                  because a lot of kids are getting good teachers and
                                          learning interesting, important things.”



                                                                                                       12
Those Who Are Concerned About School Performance Note
       the Increased Use of Standardized Testing
          What are some examples of how schools in Oregon have been doing a bad job?




                                                  “Basically, you go to high school to
  “Too standardized tests based,
                                                      pass standardized tests.
                                                                           tests.”
 should b more experiential and
   h ld be             i i l d
        discussion based.”

                                                                     “Too much focus is placed
                                                                     on standardized tests and
                                                                     not enough focus is set on
                        “Focusing more of the attention              customizing the education
                          on testing than on learning.”                   for each student.”




   “Four words: No Child Left Behind.
 Teachers are no longer allowed to teach.
 They are forced to present test after test,           “Focusing too much on just trying to get the
     reach standard after standard ”
                          standard.                  students to pass the test (teaching for the test)”
                                                                                                 test)


                                                                                                          13
Others Do Not Feel Challenged By the Schools In Oregon
          What are some examples of how schools in Oregon have been doing a bad job?



                                                               “I hope for a more advanced
“There is no encouragement to finish                            and rigorous education like
     school and the graduation                                                   countries.
                                                               many of the other countries ”
     requirements are a joke.”




       “I know that many of my
      peers aren’t getting nearly
                                                              “Most don’t offer enough
     as much as they could out of
                                                                            classes.
                                                                challenging classes ”
        class. M school offers
          l    My h l ff
     several “easy A” classes and
     above-average students like
      myself are missing out on
          other opportunities.”
            th       t iti ”


                                                                                               14
Still Others Worry About Budget Cuts and Larger Class Sizes
         What are some examples of how schools in Oregon have been doing a bad job?


      “The budget cuts are harming our
       The                                              “Class sizes are getting bigger to a
                                                         Class
   teachers. They are being affected now                 point where learning is becoming
       but this will end up harming the                        more of a challenge.”
    upcoming generation and their skills.”




                “The government is cutting many funds for                 “For our school districts to excel
               education.
               education I believe that the governor already              they i l
                                                                          th simply need more money.”
                                                                                          d                ”
                vetoed a bill that would help the education
               system. Moreover, we need more funding for
              early education, such as preschool and pre-K.”



                                                                 “Currently, the class sizes in my school
                                                                   are bigger than they should be with
                                                                 some classes having 40 kids to a room.
                                                                    Also, with our diminishing budget,
                                                                   electives that kids like may be taken
                             “Funding, it’s horrible.
                                                                  away. I do not want giant classes and
                             They need to fix that.”
                                               that
                                                                   do not want quality elective options
                                                                          taken from my school.”
                                                                                                               15
Much of the Concern Around Budget Cuts Is Focused on the
 Diminishing Number of Electives, Music and Art Offerings
                       Electives

      What are some examples of how schools in Oregon have been doing a bad job?


                                “Electives are being cut yearly.”


   “Not enough arts
                                             “Promotion of the arts is very low in
     programs.”
                                              many, if not most, public schools.”




                       “Our state’s schools are cutting                        “Limited art classes and
                         arts programs left and right.
                           t            l ft d i ht                              limited PE classes.”
                                                                                             classes
                      Budgets and other needed funds
                      are getting slashed left and right.”




                           “Cutting music and cutting leadership like FFA.”




                                                                                                          16
A Few Point to Mismanaged Resources

What are some examples of how schools in Oregon have been doing a bad job?


                                                    “We have no money so we are
                                                   cutting all the classes that aren’t
                                                    deemed “core” and are making
                                                those classes very l
                                                th       l            large, yet we j t
                                                                                t      just
                                                 paid someone to paint the inside of
                                                     our school . . . I don’t get it.”

                        “They are spending money on things that do
                        not matter, like a new school logo when they
                           could be spending it on things such as
                          supplying buses for band to play at the
                                   graduating ceremony.”


                                              “They have been taking allotted amount
                                                   for education and buying new
                                                 technology that we don’t need and
                                                  spending it on this that make the
                                                administration look good but are not
                                                      benefiting the students.”
                                                                     students ”


                                                                                              17
The Environment
  e      o e




                  18
Over Three-Quarters Have Positive Things to Say
               About the Condition of Oregon’s Environment
                                         g
                             Though Nearly Two-Thirds Say It Is in Only “Good Shape”
 “I believe that generally
 Oregonians care about
     the environment.”            Overall, how would you rate Oregon’s environment? Is it in
                                excellent shape, good shape, only f i shape or i poor shape?
                                    ll     h        d h        l fair h        in      h     ?



      Excellent                  15%
       shape
        h                                                                                    Net Positive
                                                                                             N t P iti
                                                                                                79%
                                                                               64%
  Good shape


Only fair shape                       20%
                                                                                            Net Negative
                                                                                                20%
   Poor shape
                       0%


      Not sure
                        1%


                  0%           20%              40%                60%               80%            100%
                                                                                                            19
Students Believe Oregonians Are Committed to Working to Protect Our
   Environment – Recycling, Mass Transit, and Renewable Energy
              Projects Top the List of Examples of This
   What are some examples of how of how Oregon’s environment is in good shape?


    “We have lots of incentives to keep the
                                                                  “We take care of how we
   environment in good shape like the bottle
                                                                live by recycling and using
     bill and tax breaks for solar panels.”
                                   p
                                                                   fuel ffi i t hi l ”
                                                                   f l efficient vehicles.”


                                  “Oregon gets much of it’s
                                 electricity f
                                  l t i it from hydroelectric
                                                h d l ti
                                    dams and wind farms.”
                                                                        “Lots of recycling, we as a state seem
                                                                           very aware of the environment.”
                                                                              y
  “Everyone i P tl d i so ‘
  “E          in Portland is    ‘green’ and equipped
                                       ’ d       i    d
  with the environmentalist mentality, people make
 efforts to drive less, using bikes all across the city.
 Portland has a great public transit which allows for
           less carbon monoxide i th air.”
           l        b          id in the i ”                           “As I drove down 205 I am happy to
                                                                        As                205,
                                                                       see a long array of solar panels that
                                                                        soak up energy to power the street
                                                                        laps lighting the freeway at night.”
                        “We recycle, have some water
                                y ,
                     protection programs, MAX and other
                           ways of transportation.”
                                                                                                                 20
These Youth Are Also Proud of Their State’s Natural Beauty
             What are some examples of how of how Oregon’s environment is in good shape?

 “Healthy forests and                      “Oregon’s expansive natural, undeveloped land is a treasure that
    clean rivers.”
           rivers                             has been well preserved. We need to continue taking care of
                                             those places and educate more people about their beauty and
                                            their importance so that our forests, canyons, grasslands, rivers
  “Look around, it’s beautiful.”                 and green spaces can be preserved for years to come.”


                  “Unlike other states Oregon still
                     has a high percentage of
                           forested area.”                   “Strong protections for sensitive lands.”


   “State and regional parks, including
   Oregon beaches, are well p
      g                      preserved                               “Oregon has many wild parks which
            and maintained.”                                          are protected from development.”




                                                                                                            21
And They Believe That Oregon’s Natural Environment Is in
              Better Shape Than Elsewhere
         What are some examples of how of how Oregon’s environment is in good shape?



       “We have one of the
       greenest cities in the
        country and lots of                      “Compared to other states, Oregon has
                                                      p                    ,    g
         natural beauty.”                         been a leader in the green campaign.”




                                                                “Well we are one of the
        “We are also one of the best states in the
                                                             greenest states physically and
         country in terms of recycling, compost
                                                             personality wise I would say.”
            and alternative fuel programs ”
                                 programs.




  “Oregon is known for being one of the                 “Well, I’m comparing Oregon to other states
greenest (and wettest) states in the nation,             and it seems to me that Oregon, especially
and there are many organizations devoted                Portland, is making good headway in getting
 to keeping Oregon clean and cared for.”                           things green and clean.”

                                                                                                      22
However, a Few Believe More Could Be Done to
           Protect th E i
           P t t the Environmentt
       What are some examples of how of how Oregon’s environment is in bad shape?



 “Oregon is beginning to implement many
eco-friendly things, but a lot more is going to
             things
              need to be done.”




                     “Good people. Pretty good
                        shape. But room for
                          improvement.”




   “While we don’t have the
  perfect environment, it isn’t
          all that bad.”



                                                                                    23
Others Worry About Logging and the Impact of
 Increased Development on the Environment
    What are some examples of how of how Oregon’s environment is in bad shape?


“Development needs to stop expanding into
suburban areas, and more land needs to be
        put aside for protection.”




                                                “The amount of logging,
                                                 The
                                                  clear cutting . . . And
   “I feel that a serious amount of              expansion of cities into
      trees are being cut down in                    wildlife areas.”
     order to put in new homes.”



                                                        “Our trees are disappearing and
                                                                           pp      g
                                                          new homes are arising. We
  “There are more and more trees that are                need to keep our natural forest
 being cut down, and with the issue of global              to preserve our oxygen.”
   warming, I don’t think it’s a good idea to
               don t      it s
  clear cut in order to build new buildings.”

                                                                                           24
The Economy
  e co o y




              25
Given the National Economic Crisis, It’s Not Surprising
        That Over 70% of These Young Oregonians Say the
                                     g      g          y
                 State’s Economy Is in Bad Shape
   “I can’t think of many
     ways in which the      Overall, how would you rate Oregon’s economy? Is it in excellent
  economy is doing well.”        shape, good shape, only f i shape or i poor shape?
                                  h         d h         l fair h      in       h     ?



      Excellent        0%
       shape
        h                                                                                Net Positive
                                                                                         N t P iti
                                                                                            12%
                            12%
  Good shape


Only fair shape                        26%
                                                                                        Net Negative
                                                                                            71%
   Poor shape
                                                        45%


       Not sure
                               18%


                  0%        20%             40%                60%               80%            100%
                                                                                                        26
The Unemployment Rate Is the Top Emblem of
     Oregon s
     Oregon’s Bad Economy, According to Students
 Indeed, Oregon’s Status as Having the Second Highest Unemployment Rate in the
              Nation Is a Well Known Stat of Shame for This Crowd

         What
         Wh t are some examples of how of how Oregon’s economy is in b d shape?
                            l    fh     fh    O     ’          i i bad h      ?


                                                                 “The tough regulation on the
        “We have a huge                                           fishing and timber industry
unemployment rate, there are                                      have taken away jobs from
 many homeless people who                                          an Oregon that needs it.”
 would otherwise be working           “Jobs are scarce,
and it is very hard to find a job,      especially in a
 even with high qualifications.          rural area.”

                                                             “Everyone is getting laid off.”



  “We are the second for the title of most            “I am not sure if this is a correct statistic, but I
 unemployed people in the country . . . Of              heard that Oregon has some of the highest
course,
course if jobs are effected than that means
                   effected,                              unemployment rates in the country. It is
                                                                                       country
   that the economy will suffer as well.”              blatant when walking down Burnside, seeing
                                                      all the homeless people. Oregon farmers are
                                                         losing jobs as a demand of their crops is
                                                      decreasing.
                                                      decreasing Families are becoming homeless
       “Oregon has one of the highest
                                                              and the job situation is terrible.”
     unemployment rates in the country.”
                                                                                                             27
Some Point to the Adverse Effect the Poor Economy
    Is Having on Funding for Critical State Services
                   What are some examples of how Oregon’s economy is in bad shape?



                                                          “Country and statewide
                                                              budget cuts.”
                                                                      cuts




                                                              “We can’t pay for basic services
                                                                        p y
                                                                     like education.”




“The budget is not figured out so         “Deficit in the school budget.”
    we are always in debt ”
                       debt.


                                                                                                 28
Many Students Believe Oregon’s Economy Is Symptomatic
       of the Troubles the Entire Nation Is Facing
                                                 g
          Put Simply: There Is a Sense That We’re Not in This Alone

      What are some examples of how of how Oregon’s economy is in bad shape?
                                           Oregon s

                                     “Just like any place in the country (or otherwise), our economy is
                                      in bad shape. I think that the whole world is in the middle of an
                                        economic disaster and it can only get worse. It doesn’t have
                                                                                worse doesn t
                                                  anything to do with Oregon specifically.”



                                                                      “Well like the whole United States,
                                                                          Oregon’s economy is being
                                                                         affected right now by the bad
                                  “I think the whole world is          economy and the stock markets.”
                                 struggling economically It is
                                             economically.
                                    not limited to Oregon.”


      People
     “People are losing jobs and
  struggling and being affected by
   goings on in Wall Street here,                    “We are in no better or worse shape than
      just like everywhere else.”                      other states, because they have similar
                                                      issues as well and we do not seem to be
                                                     handling them any better than the others.”

                                                                                                          29
Looking to the Future: What Oregon
   Should Change and Aspire to




             Grove Insight
              July, 2009


                                     30
In a nutshell, students want Oregon to
                                                               aspire to: “Repairing the economy and
                                                             improving and maintaining high standards
                                                                 of education and the environment.”
                                                                                       environment

Much like adult Oregonians right now, these teens’ priorities and hopes for the future are framed by the
current economic crisis. Similar to our findings in the statewide one-on-one interviews (conducted in May and
June of 2009) these youth are most concerned with the “Three E’s” – economy education and the
         2009),                                                    Three E s     economy,
environment.

With six in 10 (61%) of these students giving Oregon schools negative reviews, it’s no surprise that
improving education tops their list of goals for our state in the coming 50 years. Having identified budget cuts
  p      g            p                g                               g    y           g               g
as a key problem, they say that the best way to achieve a stronger education system is to increase school
funding.

Yet, money isn’t the silver bullet. Students also suggest that we need to evolve in the way we teach our
youth, using different approaches in order to cater to diverse learning styles. Given their concerns about an
over-emphasis on testing, this desire for more flexibility makes good sense.

When it comes to Oregon’s environment, eight in 10 (79%) say it’s in at least “good” shape. Specifically, they
are proud of Oregon’s natural beauty and believe Oregonians to be better stewards than residents of other
             Oregon s
areas – particularly when it comes to recycling and mass transit. Still, they strongly believe that there is
always more we could be doing.

This need for continuously improving our environmental practices plays into their vision of a new renewable
energy economy in Oregon. They see this as accomplishing two very important goals: boosting Oregon’s
troubled economy with much-needed jobs while safeguarding our unique natural environment.

To implement the important changes in the “Three E’s,” that Oregon youth would like to see over the next 50
years, they point to our need to work together as a state. This includes doing a better job incorporating the
voice of the people in the decision-making that goes on in Salem, as well as pulling together as the Oregon
“community’ – something they strongly value.                                                                31
A Top Goal for Oregon Students Is an Improved
                           Education System
              Define the most important goal you think Oregon should aspire to in the next 50 years.
                                                                               “Improve the public
                                                             “Oregon needs
                                                             “O           d     education system
                                                                                  d   ti         t
                                                                 a better       through increased
                                                                education      funding, staff, small
                                     “Education and the          system.”        class sizes, and      “Improving education to the
                                   way we teach children                         better facilities.”      level where people are
                                      so that they may                                                  actually prepared to go to
                                   absorb and obtain the                                                college and if they choose
                                    information that they
                                    i f     ti th t th                                                  instead to go into another
                                   are required to learn.”                                              profession they have other
                                                                                                                  skills.”
                   “A stable
                 education for
                 students and                                                                                              “Improving our
                keeping jobs for                                                                                      educational system so
                                                                                                                        d    ti    l   t
                  teachers.”                                                                                           that all students may
                                                                                                                         succeed, because
                                                                                                                      children are out future.”

   “Education! I think if
    people were more
  educated on a more                                                                                                                   “Better education
    broad basis then I                                                                                                               standards and more
  think that would help                                                                                                                variety within the
 more the economy and                                                                                                                 subjects we learn.”
      communities.”




   “Oregon’s school
 systems should be a                                                      Improve                                                            “Education
much higher priority than                                                Education                                                             reform”
  they are right now
                 now.



                                                                                                                                                  32
In Order to Achieve Students’ Goal of Improving
  Education, Many Firmly Believe that Schools Need
           ,     y      y
                    More Funding
       What would be the most important change you think is necessary to achieve
                                            g y                     y
                            your 50 year goal for Oregon?
                                                                              “The government should
“More money towards education                                                     put the children’s
 and j b creation/job t i i ”
   d job     ti /j b training.”         “Making college
                                         Making                                  education ahead of
                                        more affordable.”                    anything else because we
                                                                                are the ones who are
                                                                              going to make a change
                                                                             and for that we should be
                                                                                   well-educated.”
                               “Increase funding for education.”


                           “Don’t cut schools’ money and                      “Find a different
                          teachers because students are                         way to fund
                                     our future.”                             Oregon schools.”


                  “Increased public awareness,
                    funding and support for the
                          g       pp                        “Direct more funding to schools and create
                                                                               g
                 bolstering of public education.”            programs to help schools. Encouraging
                                                              donations from alumni would be good.”
                                                                                                         33
Others Believe That in Order to Change the School System
 for the Better, We Need to Change How Children Are Taught
         Better
             What would be the most important change you think is necessary to achieve
                                  your 50 year goal for Oregon?

                                                                 “Removing credit by proficiency and
“Create schools that have programs that can reach all          instead re-teach teachers how to teach
  the needs of the students. Dedicated teachers will              with the different learning methods
also be needed and teachers who not only teach to the          (Kinesthetic, Auditory,
                                                               (Kinesthetic Auditory Visual) the same
 top or bottom students, but teach so the whole group         way most ELL teachers know how to do.”
   of students can be stimulated even if you’re a top
             student or a bottom student.”

                                                            “Having periodic check ups on students
                                                              and teachers and continuing special
                                                                     education programs.”
       “Teaching and testing students on more
      than just two ways of learning. We must
        engage each student in their own way,
       because we are all unique individuals.”               “The education system should be very
                                                           transparent so that parents, students and
                                                          teachers alike are able to see what’s being
                                                         taught. If something isn’t working, we need
      “Encourage open discussion and                    to speak up and make clear what we like and
    increase education and openness in                     what we don’t, what needs improving and
          the school environment.”                                  what needs changing.”

                                                                                                        34
Students Are Interested in Improving Oregon’s Economy
         Define the most important goal you think Oregon should aspire to in the next 50 years.



                                             “Reducing the unemployment rate ”
                                              Reducing                  rate.




                                  “I think we should really focus on stimulating j g
                                                          y                    g job growth.”




                                        “I think Oregon should focus on employment.”
                                         I                              employment.




                                                     “Build the economy ”
                                                      Build     economy.




                                                  “Improving economically.”
                                                   Improving economically




“I think the most important goal Oregon should aspire is to make the economy better because I think it’s one really big issue ”
 I                                                                                                  it s                issue.


                                                                                                                         35
Switching to a Renewable Energy Economy Was Cited
             as an Important Goal as Well
  Define the most important goal you think Oregon should aspire to in the next 50 years.
                                                       “Changing the
                                                      economy over to
                                                              y
                                                     produce renewable
                                                          energy.”
                 “I think an important goal for
                Oregon should be to better the                             “It should be completely
             environment. I believe this because                           green. All new buildings
             we only have one Oregon and one                                and sources of energy
             chance to live on this planet that is                             should be green ”
                                                                                         green.”
              slowly polluting and I just want my
                children to get a chance to see
                       Oregon at it’s best.”




                                                                                          “Eliminate use of
    “I believe the most important                                                        natural gases. As
       aspect for me is making                                                           well as expand the
           Oregon g
              g greener.”                                                                use of solar, wind
                                                                                           and hydrogen.”




                “It is also already on the
              forefront of environmentally
            friendly mass transit systems,                                   “To no longer rely on carbon
               especially Portland’s Max                                     based fuels for power. And to
             system, so that must be kept                                    create all of Oregon’s energy
                               p
                    and/or expanded.”                                              within the state.”
                                                                                              state.
                                                         “To lead the
                                                       country in green
                                                     technology, habits,
                                                        and alternative                                       36
                                                      energy sources.”
Many Students Do Make the Connection Between a Green
Economy, Better Jobs and Overall Economic Performance
Define the most important goal you think Oregon should aspire to in the next 50 years.




                                           “To come up with
                                          much more jobs to
                                         fuel the economy but
                                           also to have all of
                                           these jobs maybe
                                         come from something
                                            environmentally
                                                based.”




                      “I also think we
                      should aspire to
                       create jobs in
                               j
                      green energy in
                        the years to
                           come.”
                                                    “Bring new technology into
                                                      Oregon which will help
                                                      benefit the environment
                                                     while giving jobs to those
                                                     who need it on all levels.”




                                                                                         37
To Achieve a Greener Economy and Clean Environment, These Youth
 Believe We Need, in Part, Government Intervention and a Focus on
                    the Creation of Green Jobs
   What would be the most important change you think is necessary to achieve your 50 year goal for Oregon?


                                            “More funding is
                                             More
                                           required to design
                                            build and install
                                           alternative energy
                                               generation
                                                devices.”
                                                                                       “Cap carbon
        “Having state                                                              emissions, education
          mandated                                                                    youth about the
        standards for                                                              environment,
                                                                                   en ironment protect
         new energy                                                                our outside because
         sources and                                                              although the economy
         state funded                                                             fluctuates over time, if
       energy sources.”
               sources                                                               we screw up our
                                                                                                p
                                                                                   natural world there’s
                                                                                      no going back.”



                                                                    “The most
                        “Promoting                              important change
                       the creation                               would be to cut
                         of green
                            g                                    down on the use
                           jobs.”                                 of fossil fuels.”

                                                                                                             38
Yet They Also Believe More Could Be Done to Simply
       Raise Public Awareness and Knowledge About the
                                           g
      Green Economy and Environmentally Sound Practices

            What would be the most important change you think is necessary to achieve
                                 your 50 year goal for Oregon?

 “Letting the public know how
  Letting
                                                                         “Educate people by
 important it will be to change
                                                                       letting them know how
 to renewables. Most people
                                                                          much energy they
are ignorant of climate change
                                    “Inspire students to follow a
                                         p                            consume in comparison
  and the effects are already
                                      ‘green’ path, and want to         to other nations in the
     being seen in Oregon.
                                    take a job in green energy.”         world and what they
  Informing the public of the
                                                                            can easily do to
      problem and making
                                                                       minimize their adverse
  sustainability the common
                                                                             effects on the
 goal of everyone is the most
                                                                             environment.”
important goal to accomplish.”




                                                                                                  39
Many Believe That the First Step in Achieving Any Goal Is
  Ensuring That We All Work Together for the Common Good
          What would be the most important change you think is necessary to achieve
                               your 50 year goal for Oregon?


     “A change in mindset. We need to accept that things won’t get better
      on their own and that we have to work together to get things done.”
                                                                                 “Fix the rift between
                                                                                western and eastern
                                                                                     t        d    t
                                                                                  sides of the state.
 “We need to realize that                                                         We are so different
   there is risk and that                                                       that we might as well
money will be lost. Good
                 lost                                                              be two different
                                                                                   b t      diff     t
things don’t come cheap.                                                                states.”
 We need to listen to the
 people and not be afraid
     to make drastic
        changes.”

                                                                         “The best thing we can do is
                                                                         have solid cooperation f
                                                                         h       lid         ti from
   “Setting up exchange programs between urban and rural
                                                                          everyone in our community
schools, allowing students to get a taste of life they’re not used
                                                                        and think not as black or white
 to. Hosting forums on issues that aren’t necessarily going to
                                                                            people, Democrats or
  divide the urban residents and the rural ones so that people
                                                          p p
                                                                            Republicans, G
                                                                            R     bli      Gays or
  across the state can team up to make changes they want.”
                                                                        Straights, but as Oregonians.”
                                                                                                          40
As Part of the Theme of Greater Cooperation, Students Would
   Also Like More Responsive and Inclusive Leadership in Salem
                      p                              p
          What would be the most important change you think is necessary to achieve
                               your 50 year goal for Oregon?

 “The governor and everyone else who helps run
  The
 Portland needs to change SOMETHING. Maybe
          we need to elect new officials.”                                “The Representatives
                                                                             and Senators of
                                                                            Oregon should not
                                                                            back policies being
                                                                          thrown into committee
                                                                            so fast that nobody
                                                                            knows about t e
                                                                               o s         them
                                                                           until the day they are
“Better government                                                              decided on.”
  officials and a
   better plan.”
           p




                                                             “Giving the people of Oregon a
    “A legislature that is more responsive
                                                             bigger say in our government ”
                                                                               government.
         to the wishes of the people.”

                                                                                                    41
A Profile of Survey Respondents




            Grove Insight
             July, 2009


                                  42
Almost Twice as Many Female Teenagers
         Responded Than Males



                                      64%
Female




                          36%
  Male




         0%   20%   40%         60%     80%

                                              43
The Majority of Participants Are in Their Junior or Senior
           Year and Are Between the Ages of 15 and 18
                What is your age?                          What year are you in high school?
60%                                         60%


                 46%
                           45%
                                                                                41%
40%                                         40%


                                                                       27%

20%                                         20%
                                                                                         14%
                                                             7%
        5%                          4%             5%                                                5%

0%                                          0%
        13 14
        13-14    15 16
                 15-16      17 18
                            17-18   19 20
                                    19-20         Freshmen Sophomore   Junior   Senior      Just   In college
                                                                                         graduated


                                                                                                         44
Just Under Three-Quarters of Survey Respondents
Live in Portland and the Willamette Valley North of the
                     Eugene Area
40%


30%        28%
                             23%              23%
20%


10%                                                        8%       8%
                                                                                  4%

0%
      City of Portland   Mid-Willamette      Portland      Coast   South I-5   Eastern Oregon
                             Valley       Suburbs/exurbs           Corridor




                                                                                            45
Over Seven in 10 Respondents Either Text Message or Have a
                       Facebook Pageg
Smaller Numbers Use MySpace and YouTube, While Twitter and Blogging Are Relatively Unused
                                 Please select the different types of new communication technologies
                                              you subscribe to or have an account with.



Cell phone text messaging                                                          74%


               Facebook                                                        70%


                Myspace
                M                                              47%


                You Tube                                      45%


                  Twitter                  18%


                    Blog               12%


                            0%         20%           40%           60%           80%           100%

                                                                                                       46
Almost Four in 10 Students Heard About Project 2059
     at the Model UN Conference or at School
                                                Where did you hear about Project 2059?

Model United Nations Conference                                         23%
                         School                           15%
                      Girl State                 9%
          FFA State Conference                 7%
                    My parents               5%
                        Mentor               5%
                       An adult              5%
            Oregon 150 website              4%
        A leadership conference             4%
                                             %
        OASC State conference               4%
                      Facebook             3%
                         DECA             3%
                       Not sure           3%
              Classmate or peer         1%
              Z100 radio station        1%
              None of the above                7%

                                   0%         10%              20%              30%      40%   47

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The Oregon Landscape: How Are We Doing?

  • 1. Findings F Fi di From St t id Statewide Interviews With Oregon s Youth Oregon’s Grove Insight July, 2009 1
  • 2. Methodology gy This analysis is based on 74 interviews among students, ages 13-20 students 13 20, interested in taking part in the Project 2059. The online survey was conducted June 29th – July 13th using an opt in email opt-in format. The survey as a whole has a margin of error of 10.4 p y g percentage p g points at the 95% level of confidence. 2
  • 3. The O Th Oregon Landscape: H L d How A Are We Doing? Grove Insight July, 2009 3
  • 4. Views o the S a e e s of e State 4
  • 5. Project 2059 Youth Are Divided in Their Perception of the Direction of the State Though They Are Much More Optimistic Than Adults in Oregon, a Near Majority of Whom Say the State Is Off on the Wrong Track Generally speaking, do you think that things in Oregon are going in the right direction, or do you feel things have gotten pretty seriously off on the wrong track? Not sure 24% Right direction g 38% Wrong track 38% 5
  • 6. While Students Are Divided Over Oregon’s Direction, Over Two-Thirds Feel Optimistic About the Future Two Thirds Would you say you feel optimistic or pessimistic about Oregon’s future? Not sure, 11% Pessimistic, 22% Optimistic 68% Optimistic, 6
  • 7. These Young Oregonians Clearly Value Their Communities V l Th i C iti How important is community in your life? Net Important 84% Somewhat important, 31% Very important, 53% Not too important, 8% Not important Not sure, 5% at all, 3% Net Not Important 11% Word Cloud created from the text of the question 7 “Define what a community means to you.”
  • 8. They Define Community By Proximity, Cooperation, Shared Resources and Goals Define h t D fi what community means to you. it t “Community is a group of people that care for one another regardless of race “A group of people that A “A group of people li i f l living and culture. This group of come together because of and working together.” people work together to a common interest/goal.” ensure peace, harmony, and joy .” “A shared group of p p within g p people “Community to me is Community the same general region that “Community t me means a “C it to something that signifies share common living desires, network of people that not togetherness. People trying operate in close quarters, only live in the same area promote community growth and to help people. Enjoying but works together to build connection, and build a strong life. And keeping things in relationships with others.” p relationship around th i region” l ti hi d their i ” good shape.” shape “To me communities are groups “Community to me is a of people with something in cooperation among people “Community is a way to common, a school, interest, a to collectively come neighborhood. What makes a come together and community strong is the n that together and advocate or accomplish goals ” goals. group working together to fight for what is right, using right develop and strengthen n their numbers as their whatever their common factor.” power.” 8
  • 9. The Issue of Education Ed ti 9
  • 10. As We Saw With the One-on-One Statewide Interviews, Students Cite Education, the Environment and the Economy As the Most Important Issues And, As Would Be Expected of Young Students, Education Heads the List What issue listed below is the most important to you personally? Education 41% +19 The environment 22% The economy 15% 9% Equal rights/opportunity 8% Job creation Physical fitness 3% Government spending G t di 1% Not sure 1% 0% 20% 40% 60% 10
  • 11. These Youth Think Oregon Could Be Doing a Better Job With the School System Though Over Three-Quarters Hold Soft Views of Schools’ Performance Overall, do you think schools in Oregon are doing an excellent job, a good j b only a f i j b or a poor j b? d job, l fair job job? 5% Excellent job Net Positive N t P iti 36% 31% Good job Only fair job 46% Net Negative 61% Poor job 15% Not sure 3% 0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 11
  • 12. Among Students Who Say Oregon Schools Are Doing a Good Job, Many Credit t e Teachers a y C ed t the eac e s What are some examples of how schools in Oregon have been doing a good job? “How the teachers are teaching.” “Passionate teachers and administrators.” “Teachers care personally about the students and the student’s needs on an “At least at my school I think that all y individual basis and really enjoy teaching.” of the teachers make an honest effort to educate resistant students and go out of their way to help those that are struggling.” gg g “I said the schools in Oregon are doing a good job because a lot of kids are getting good teachers and learning interesting, important things.” 12
  • 13. Those Who Are Concerned About School Performance Note the Increased Use of Standardized Testing What are some examples of how schools in Oregon have been doing a bad job? “Basically, you go to high school to “Too standardized tests based, pass standardized tests. tests.” should b more experiential and h ld be i i l d discussion based.” “Too much focus is placed on standardized tests and not enough focus is set on “Focusing more of the attention customizing the education on testing than on learning.” for each student.” “Four words: No Child Left Behind. Teachers are no longer allowed to teach. They are forced to present test after test, “Focusing too much on just trying to get the reach standard after standard ” standard. students to pass the test (teaching for the test)” test) 13
  • 14. Others Do Not Feel Challenged By the Schools In Oregon What are some examples of how schools in Oregon have been doing a bad job? “I hope for a more advanced “There is no encouragement to finish and rigorous education like school and the graduation countries. many of the other countries ” requirements are a joke.” “I know that many of my peers aren’t getting nearly “Most don’t offer enough as much as they could out of classes. challenging classes ” class. M school offers l My h l ff several “easy A” classes and above-average students like myself are missing out on other opportunities.” th t iti ” 14
  • 15. Still Others Worry About Budget Cuts and Larger Class Sizes What are some examples of how schools in Oregon have been doing a bad job? “The budget cuts are harming our The “Class sizes are getting bigger to a Class teachers. They are being affected now point where learning is becoming but this will end up harming the more of a challenge.” upcoming generation and their skills.” “The government is cutting many funds for “For our school districts to excel education. education I believe that the governor already they i l th simply need more money.” d ” vetoed a bill that would help the education system. Moreover, we need more funding for early education, such as preschool and pre-K.” “Currently, the class sizes in my school are bigger than they should be with some classes having 40 kids to a room. Also, with our diminishing budget, electives that kids like may be taken “Funding, it’s horrible. away. I do not want giant classes and They need to fix that.” that do not want quality elective options taken from my school.” 15
  • 16. Much of the Concern Around Budget Cuts Is Focused on the Diminishing Number of Electives, Music and Art Offerings Electives What are some examples of how schools in Oregon have been doing a bad job? “Electives are being cut yearly.” “Not enough arts “Promotion of the arts is very low in programs.” many, if not most, public schools.” “Our state’s schools are cutting “Limited art classes and arts programs left and right. t l ft d i ht limited PE classes.” classes Budgets and other needed funds are getting slashed left and right.” “Cutting music and cutting leadership like FFA.” 16
  • 17. A Few Point to Mismanaged Resources What are some examples of how schools in Oregon have been doing a bad job? “We have no money so we are cutting all the classes that aren’t deemed “core” and are making those classes very l th l large, yet we j t t just paid someone to paint the inside of our school . . . I don’t get it.” “They are spending money on things that do not matter, like a new school logo when they could be spending it on things such as supplying buses for band to play at the graduating ceremony.” “They have been taking allotted amount for education and buying new technology that we don’t need and spending it on this that make the administration look good but are not benefiting the students.” students ” 17
  • 18. The Environment e o e 18
  • 19. Over Three-Quarters Have Positive Things to Say About the Condition of Oregon’s Environment g Though Nearly Two-Thirds Say It Is in Only “Good Shape” “I believe that generally Oregonians care about the environment.” Overall, how would you rate Oregon’s environment? Is it in excellent shape, good shape, only f i shape or i poor shape? ll h d h l fair h in h ? Excellent 15% shape h Net Positive N t P iti 79% 64% Good shape Only fair shape 20% Net Negative 20% Poor shape 0% Not sure 1% 0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100% 19
  • 20. Students Believe Oregonians Are Committed to Working to Protect Our Environment – Recycling, Mass Transit, and Renewable Energy Projects Top the List of Examples of This What are some examples of how of how Oregon’s environment is in good shape? “We have lots of incentives to keep the “We take care of how we environment in good shape like the bottle live by recycling and using bill and tax breaks for solar panels.” p fuel ffi i t hi l ” f l efficient vehicles.” “Oregon gets much of it’s electricity f l t i it from hydroelectric h d l ti dams and wind farms.” “Lots of recycling, we as a state seem very aware of the environment.” y “Everyone i P tl d i so ‘ “E in Portland is ‘green’ and equipped ’ d i d with the environmentalist mentality, people make efforts to drive less, using bikes all across the city. Portland has a great public transit which allows for less carbon monoxide i th air.” l b id in the i ” “As I drove down 205 I am happy to As 205, see a long array of solar panels that soak up energy to power the street laps lighting the freeway at night.” “We recycle, have some water y , protection programs, MAX and other ways of transportation.” 20
  • 21. These Youth Are Also Proud of Their State’s Natural Beauty What are some examples of how of how Oregon’s environment is in good shape? “Healthy forests and “Oregon’s expansive natural, undeveloped land is a treasure that clean rivers.” rivers has been well preserved. We need to continue taking care of those places and educate more people about their beauty and their importance so that our forests, canyons, grasslands, rivers “Look around, it’s beautiful.” and green spaces can be preserved for years to come.” “Unlike other states Oregon still has a high percentage of forested area.” “Strong protections for sensitive lands.” “State and regional parks, including Oregon beaches, are well p g preserved “Oregon has many wild parks which and maintained.” are protected from development.” 21
  • 22. And They Believe That Oregon’s Natural Environment Is in Better Shape Than Elsewhere What are some examples of how of how Oregon’s environment is in good shape? “We have one of the greenest cities in the country and lots of “Compared to other states, Oregon has p , g natural beauty.” been a leader in the green campaign.” “Well we are one of the “We are also one of the best states in the greenest states physically and country in terms of recycling, compost personality wise I would say.” and alternative fuel programs ” programs. “Oregon is known for being one of the “Well, I’m comparing Oregon to other states greenest (and wettest) states in the nation, and it seems to me that Oregon, especially and there are many organizations devoted Portland, is making good headway in getting to keeping Oregon clean and cared for.” things green and clean.” 22
  • 23. However, a Few Believe More Could Be Done to Protect th E i P t t the Environmentt What are some examples of how of how Oregon’s environment is in bad shape? “Oregon is beginning to implement many eco-friendly things, but a lot more is going to things need to be done.” “Good people. Pretty good shape. But room for improvement.” “While we don’t have the perfect environment, it isn’t all that bad.” 23
  • 24. Others Worry About Logging and the Impact of Increased Development on the Environment What are some examples of how of how Oregon’s environment is in bad shape? “Development needs to stop expanding into suburban areas, and more land needs to be put aside for protection.” “The amount of logging, The clear cutting . . . And “I feel that a serious amount of expansion of cities into trees are being cut down in wildlife areas.” order to put in new homes.” “Our trees are disappearing and pp g new homes are arising. We “There are more and more trees that are need to keep our natural forest being cut down, and with the issue of global to preserve our oxygen.” warming, I don’t think it’s a good idea to don t it s clear cut in order to build new buildings.” 24
  • 25. The Economy e co o y 25
  • 26. Given the National Economic Crisis, It’s Not Surprising That Over 70% of These Young Oregonians Say the g g y State’s Economy Is in Bad Shape “I can’t think of many ways in which the Overall, how would you rate Oregon’s economy? Is it in excellent economy is doing well.” shape, good shape, only f i shape or i poor shape? h d h l fair h in h ? Excellent 0% shape h Net Positive N t P iti 12% 12% Good shape Only fair shape 26% Net Negative 71% Poor shape 45% Not sure 18% 0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100% 26
  • 27. The Unemployment Rate Is the Top Emblem of Oregon s Oregon’s Bad Economy, According to Students Indeed, Oregon’s Status as Having the Second Highest Unemployment Rate in the Nation Is a Well Known Stat of Shame for This Crowd What Wh t are some examples of how of how Oregon’s economy is in b d shape? l fh fh O ’ i i bad h ? “The tough regulation on the “We have a huge fishing and timber industry unemployment rate, there are have taken away jobs from many homeless people who an Oregon that needs it.” would otherwise be working “Jobs are scarce, and it is very hard to find a job, especially in a even with high qualifications. rural area.” “Everyone is getting laid off.” “We are the second for the title of most “I am not sure if this is a correct statistic, but I unemployed people in the country . . . Of heard that Oregon has some of the highest course, course if jobs are effected than that means effected, unemployment rates in the country. It is country that the economy will suffer as well.” blatant when walking down Burnside, seeing all the homeless people. Oregon farmers are losing jobs as a demand of their crops is decreasing. decreasing Families are becoming homeless “Oregon has one of the highest and the job situation is terrible.” unemployment rates in the country.” 27
  • 28. Some Point to the Adverse Effect the Poor Economy Is Having on Funding for Critical State Services What are some examples of how Oregon’s economy is in bad shape? “Country and statewide budget cuts.” cuts “We can’t pay for basic services p y like education.” “The budget is not figured out so “Deficit in the school budget.” we are always in debt ” debt. 28
  • 29. Many Students Believe Oregon’s Economy Is Symptomatic of the Troubles the Entire Nation Is Facing g Put Simply: There Is a Sense That We’re Not in This Alone What are some examples of how of how Oregon’s economy is in bad shape? Oregon s “Just like any place in the country (or otherwise), our economy is in bad shape. I think that the whole world is in the middle of an economic disaster and it can only get worse. It doesn’t have worse doesn t anything to do with Oregon specifically.” “Well like the whole United States, Oregon’s economy is being affected right now by the bad “I think the whole world is economy and the stock markets.” struggling economically It is economically. not limited to Oregon.” People “People are losing jobs and struggling and being affected by goings on in Wall Street here, “We are in no better or worse shape than just like everywhere else.” other states, because they have similar issues as well and we do not seem to be handling them any better than the others.” 29
  • 30. Looking to the Future: What Oregon Should Change and Aspire to Grove Insight July, 2009 30
  • 31. In a nutshell, students want Oregon to aspire to: “Repairing the economy and improving and maintaining high standards of education and the environment.” environment Much like adult Oregonians right now, these teens’ priorities and hopes for the future are framed by the current economic crisis. Similar to our findings in the statewide one-on-one interviews (conducted in May and June of 2009) these youth are most concerned with the “Three E’s” – economy education and the 2009), Three E s economy, environment. With six in 10 (61%) of these students giving Oregon schools negative reviews, it’s no surprise that improving education tops their list of goals for our state in the coming 50 years. Having identified budget cuts p g p g g y g g as a key problem, they say that the best way to achieve a stronger education system is to increase school funding. Yet, money isn’t the silver bullet. Students also suggest that we need to evolve in the way we teach our youth, using different approaches in order to cater to diverse learning styles. Given their concerns about an over-emphasis on testing, this desire for more flexibility makes good sense. When it comes to Oregon’s environment, eight in 10 (79%) say it’s in at least “good” shape. Specifically, they are proud of Oregon’s natural beauty and believe Oregonians to be better stewards than residents of other Oregon s areas – particularly when it comes to recycling and mass transit. Still, they strongly believe that there is always more we could be doing. This need for continuously improving our environmental practices plays into their vision of a new renewable energy economy in Oregon. They see this as accomplishing two very important goals: boosting Oregon’s troubled economy with much-needed jobs while safeguarding our unique natural environment. To implement the important changes in the “Three E’s,” that Oregon youth would like to see over the next 50 years, they point to our need to work together as a state. This includes doing a better job incorporating the voice of the people in the decision-making that goes on in Salem, as well as pulling together as the Oregon “community’ – something they strongly value. 31
  • 32. A Top Goal for Oregon Students Is an Improved Education System Define the most important goal you think Oregon should aspire to in the next 50 years. “Improve the public “Oregon needs “O d education system d ti t a better through increased education funding, staff, small “Education and the system.” class sizes, and “Improving education to the way we teach children better facilities.” level where people are so that they may actually prepared to go to absorb and obtain the college and if they choose information that they i f ti th t th instead to go into another are required to learn.” profession they have other skills.” “A stable education for students and “Improving our keeping jobs for educational system so d ti l t teachers.” that all students may succeed, because children are out future.” “Education! I think if people were more educated on a more “Better education broad basis then I standards and more think that would help variety within the more the economy and subjects we learn.” communities.” “Oregon’s school systems should be a Improve  “Education much higher priority than Education reform” they are right now now. 32
  • 33. In Order to Achieve Students’ Goal of Improving Education, Many Firmly Believe that Schools Need , y y More Funding What would be the most important change you think is necessary to achieve g y y your 50 year goal for Oregon? “The government should “More money towards education put the children’s and j b creation/job t i i ” d job ti /j b training.” “Making college Making education ahead of more affordable.” anything else because we are the ones who are going to make a change and for that we should be well-educated.” “Increase funding for education.” “Don’t cut schools’ money and “Find a different teachers because students are way to fund our future.” Oregon schools.” “Increased public awareness, funding and support for the g pp “Direct more funding to schools and create g bolstering of public education.” programs to help schools. Encouraging donations from alumni would be good.” 33
  • 34. Others Believe That in Order to Change the School System for the Better, We Need to Change How Children Are Taught Better What would be the most important change you think is necessary to achieve your 50 year goal for Oregon? “Removing credit by proficiency and “Create schools that have programs that can reach all instead re-teach teachers how to teach the needs of the students. Dedicated teachers will with the different learning methods also be needed and teachers who not only teach to the (Kinesthetic, Auditory, (Kinesthetic Auditory Visual) the same top or bottom students, but teach so the whole group way most ELL teachers know how to do.” of students can be stimulated even if you’re a top student or a bottom student.” “Having periodic check ups on students and teachers and continuing special education programs.” “Teaching and testing students on more than just two ways of learning. We must engage each student in their own way, because we are all unique individuals.” “The education system should be very transparent so that parents, students and teachers alike are able to see what’s being taught. If something isn’t working, we need “Encourage open discussion and to speak up and make clear what we like and increase education and openness in what we don’t, what needs improving and the school environment.” what needs changing.” 34
  • 35. Students Are Interested in Improving Oregon’s Economy Define the most important goal you think Oregon should aspire to in the next 50 years. “Reducing the unemployment rate ” Reducing rate. “I think we should really focus on stimulating j g y g job growth.” “I think Oregon should focus on employment.” I employment. “Build the economy ” Build economy. “Improving economically.” Improving economically “I think the most important goal Oregon should aspire is to make the economy better because I think it’s one really big issue ” I it s issue. 35
  • 36. Switching to a Renewable Energy Economy Was Cited as an Important Goal as Well Define the most important goal you think Oregon should aspire to in the next 50 years. “Changing the economy over to y produce renewable energy.” “I think an important goal for Oregon should be to better the “It should be completely environment. I believe this because green. All new buildings we only have one Oregon and one and sources of energy chance to live on this planet that is should be green ” green.” slowly polluting and I just want my children to get a chance to see Oregon at it’s best.” “Eliminate use of “I believe the most important natural gases. As aspect for me is making well as expand the Oregon g g greener.” use of solar, wind and hydrogen.” “It is also already on the forefront of environmentally friendly mass transit systems, “To no longer rely on carbon especially Portland’s Max based fuels for power. And to system, so that must be kept create all of Oregon’s energy p and/or expanded.” within the state.” state. “To lead the country in green technology, habits, and alternative 36 energy sources.”
  • 37. Many Students Do Make the Connection Between a Green Economy, Better Jobs and Overall Economic Performance Define the most important goal you think Oregon should aspire to in the next 50 years. “To come up with much more jobs to fuel the economy but also to have all of these jobs maybe come from something environmentally based.” “I also think we should aspire to create jobs in j green energy in the years to come.” “Bring new technology into Oregon which will help benefit the environment while giving jobs to those who need it on all levels.” 37
  • 38. To Achieve a Greener Economy and Clean Environment, These Youth Believe We Need, in Part, Government Intervention and a Focus on the Creation of Green Jobs What would be the most important change you think is necessary to achieve your 50 year goal for Oregon? “More funding is More required to design build and install alternative energy generation devices.” “Cap carbon “Having state emissions, education mandated youth about the standards for environment, en ironment protect new energy our outside because sources and although the economy state funded fluctuates over time, if energy sources.” sources we screw up our p natural world there’s no going back.” “The most “Promoting important change the creation would be to cut of green g down on the use jobs.” of fossil fuels.” 38
  • 39. Yet They Also Believe More Could Be Done to Simply Raise Public Awareness and Knowledge About the g Green Economy and Environmentally Sound Practices What would be the most important change you think is necessary to achieve your 50 year goal for Oregon? “Letting the public know how Letting “Educate people by important it will be to change letting them know how to renewables. Most people much energy they are ignorant of climate change “Inspire students to follow a p consume in comparison and the effects are already ‘green’ path, and want to to other nations in the being seen in Oregon. take a job in green energy.” world and what they Informing the public of the can easily do to problem and making minimize their adverse sustainability the common effects on the goal of everyone is the most environment.” important goal to accomplish.” 39
  • 40. Many Believe That the First Step in Achieving Any Goal Is Ensuring That We All Work Together for the Common Good What would be the most important change you think is necessary to achieve your 50 year goal for Oregon? “A change in mindset. We need to accept that things won’t get better on their own and that we have to work together to get things done.” “Fix the rift between western and eastern t d t sides of the state. “We need to realize that We are so different there is risk and that that we might as well money will be lost. Good lost be two different b t diff t things don’t come cheap. states.” We need to listen to the people and not be afraid to make drastic changes.” “The best thing we can do is have solid cooperation f h lid ti from “Setting up exchange programs between urban and rural everyone in our community schools, allowing students to get a taste of life they’re not used and think not as black or white to. Hosting forums on issues that aren’t necessarily going to people, Democrats or divide the urban residents and the rural ones so that people p p Republicans, G R bli Gays or across the state can team up to make changes they want.” Straights, but as Oregonians.” 40
  • 41. As Part of the Theme of Greater Cooperation, Students Would Also Like More Responsive and Inclusive Leadership in Salem p p What would be the most important change you think is necessary to achieve your 50 year goal for Oregon? “The governor and everyone else who helps run The Portland needs to change SOMETHING. Maybe we need to elect new officials.” “The Representatives and Senators of Oregon should not back policies being thrown into committee so fast that nobody knows about t e o s them until the day they are “Better government decided on.” officials and a better plan.” p “Giving the people of Oregon a “A legislature that is more responsive bigger say in our government ” government. to the wishes of the people.” 41
  • 42. A Profile of Survey Respondents Grove Insight July, 2009 42
  • 43. Almost Twice as Many Female Teenagers Responded Than Males 64% Female 36% Male 0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 43
  • 44. The Majority of Participants Are in Their Junior or Senior Year and Are Between the Ages of 15 and 18 What is your age? What year are you in high school? 60% 60% 46% 45% 41% 40% 40% 27% 20% 20% 14% 7% 5% 4% 5% 5% 0% 0% 13 14 13-14 15 16 15-16 17 18 17-18 19 20 19-20 Freshmen Sophomore Junior Senior Just In college graduated 44
  • 45. Just Under Three-Quarters of Survey Respondents Live in Portland and the Willamette Valley North of the Eugene Area 40% 30% 28% 23% 23% 20% 10% 8% 8% 4% 0% City of Portland Mid-Willamette Portland Coast South I-5 Eastern Oregon Valley Suburbs/exurbs Corridor 45
  • 46. Over Seven in 10 Respondents Either Text Message or Have a Facebook Pageg Smaller Numbers Use MySpace and YouTube, While Twitter and Blogging Are Relatively Unused Please select the different types of new communication technologies you subscribe to or have an account with. Cell phone text messaging 74% Facebook 70% Myspace M 47% You Tube 45% Twitter 18% Blog 12% 0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100% 46
  • 47. Almost Four in 10 Students Heard About Project 2059 at the Model UN Conference or at School Where did you hear about Project 2059? Model United Nations Conference 23% School 15% Girl State 9% FFA State Conference 7% My parents 5% Mentor 5% An adult 5% Oregon 150 website 4% A leadership conference 4% % OASC State conference 4% Facebook 3% DECA 3% Not sure 3% Classmate or peer 1% Z100 radio station 1% None of the above 7% 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 47