Media: ERA in the News

Stay Current on the Latest ERA News


At ERA, we are working tirelessly to prepare children for life after graduation through educational policy reform and advocacy. Our efforts have been recognized by top media outlets, highlighting our vision and impact on education. Explore our latest press coverage, expert op-eds and media features.
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Featured Media Coverage



Fred Ode highlights the critical roles of soft skills like communication, leadership, and adaptability in Ohio classrooms. Amid issues like the dismantling of the U.S. Department of Education, ERA's Life Discovery class is uniquely positioned to both provide a model for classrooms across the country and prepare the next-gen workforce.


[Article] Columbia Schools to pilot life skills course next year (The Chronicle-Telegram, 5/5/25)

Columbia High School principal, Brian Siftar, discusses the ERA Life Discovery pilot program launching this fall—and how the course will help students turn their interests into tangible plans after graduation.



Cleveland.com shares an overview of ERA's Life Discovery curriculum—and dives into founder Fred Ode's passion and reasoning behind creating the class.

[Podcast] Dialogues on Education: Fred Ode (Scholastic Games H.S. Quiz Podcast, 3/9/25)

Fred Ode joins the Dialogues on Education program to discuss the ERA Teaching to the Test of Life™ approach and how the Life Discovery curriculum id designed to help students navigate the complexities of adult life.



Cleveland.com highlights ERA's efforts to bring life skills education to students. The article focuses on the statistics behind founder Fred Ode's vision and provides an overview of the Life Discovery class.


Fred Ode responds to recent statistics on workforce dissatisfaction, tracing the cause to a fundamental misalignment between employees and the right fit for their interests and skillsets. He argues for more student exposure to career options and more opportunity for student self-discovery, using the ERA Life Discovery curriculum as an example of how to accomplish this.


[Op-Ed] Personal View: We need more life skills in Ohio classrooms (Crain's Cleveland Business, 1/2/25)

Fred Ode urges Ohio to implement a full-year life skills course focused on preparing students for post-graduation success. He posits that financial literacy, job readiness, and practical problem-solving skills would ensure students are better prepared for real-world challenges.



ERA founder Fred Ode argues that education should prioritize teaching practical life skills over prepping students for standardized tests. He emphasizes the critical nature of skills like financial literacy and effective communication, along with a curriculum that equips students with tools like these to successfully navigate adulthood.

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If you're a journalist looking for commentary, an educator or policymaker interested in collaboration, or an ERA supporter who wants to learn more, we'd love to hear from you! Contact us today to connect with our team and join the movement to improve student success through life preparedness

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