OpinionBy Sandy Boyd

When forming the Seek Common Ground network six years ago, we sought to incubate local efforts to defend high academic standards. We asked coalitions to adhere to a typical issue-focused campaign model: hire a strong quarterback, earn and place media, and influence policymakers. Coalition building centered around that last component: a range of advocates, educators, employers and civic leaders would show force and serve as a proxy for public will. That model exists for a reason: It works.