News

ThinkWorks Founder to offer keynote at Roundtable for Business Leaders

May 14th, 2009

Fairfax, VA -- ThinkWorks Founder and President Dr. Derek Cabrera will deliver the keynote to the Fairfax Futures Business Partners' Roundtable Breakfast on Tuesday, May 20, 2009.  In a talk entitled "Building Critical Thinkers for a Globally Competitive Workforce," he will describe the impact of thinking skills on student achievement.  The event will take place from 7:30 - 9:30am at the Capital One Conference Center in McLean, Virginia.

Early childhood education has been a hot issue in recent years as corporate leaders, policy makers, and educational researchers all highlight its importance.  Researchers estimate that every dollar spent on early childhood education has an impact equal to $17 spent later on a child's education.  They also point out that spending on early childhood education has long-term effects on workplace skills.

"This audience of decision-makers understands the dire need for thinking skills," Dr. Cabrera said.  "The ability to think is not a luxury for a few students, nor can we wait until students are in their teens to teach thinking skills.  Given the global situation, students need to think now more than ever."

Fairfax Futures promotes early childhood education as a means of preparing all students for school and life.  According to their website, they "invest in early childhood education and school readiness by bringing attention and financial resources to sustain our region's future."   Corporate Partners of Fairfax Futures include Boeing, Capital One, and PNC Financial Services Group. Tuesday's event is made possible through a grant from the Washington Area Women's Foundation and is offered in partnership with the Alexandria Community Trust.