The Compact for Higher Education has a straightforward goal: To increase the number of working-age residents with post-secondary education.

Maine is falling behind other states in the region, and the effects are harming the state’s economic opportunities. More than 30 studies have been conducted on the “brain drain” that is pulling young, educated workers away from the state and the state’s underachievement on higher education.

As members of The Compact eloquently say, the issue has been studied to death. There has, however, been little substantive change in the state’s efforts to attract and maintain an educated population.

Members of The Compact, touting their own efforts, say there’s been enough talk and it’s time for action. They’re right, but so far they’re just talking, too.

Only 23 percent of Maine’s residents possess a bachelor’s degree. The average attainment rate in New England is 31 percent. The problem is more acute in the state’s rural areas, where the rate drops to just 15 percent. Per capita incomes in Maine are 31 percent below the New England average, and half of Maine’s high school graduates don’t go to college.

The Compact for Higher Education, which is a joint effort of the Maine Development Foundation and the Maine Community Foundation, was introduced in March. It brings together leaders from the business, political and education communities to develop a list of hard-and-fast proposals aimed at improving higher education. The group held its third meeting last week at Central Maine Community College.

Compact leaders say they will have a rough draft of proposals ready for public review in November and will present their plan officially early next year. On the surface, it sounds like just another study. But the group has the clout to get things done and promises an intense lobbying and marketing effort in support of its work.

Maine is missing out on the potential of all those workers who leave the state and all those residents who, for one reason or another, have not pursued education beyond high school. Additional studies aren’t going to stop the slide. There is no better indicator of economic success than a person’s level of education. As the state continues its effort to recruit new employers to the state, an educated workforce is fundamental. Maine has a reputation for a hard-working and committed population. But companies operating in the new economy demand trained, educated workers. Much of our future success depends on meeting these requirements.

We are optimistic that the members of The Compact for Higher Education will back up their words with actions. Otherwise, their efforts will only add the latest addendum to the growing pile of papers with dour warnings about our economic outlook.

We’re watching, and we’re ready for something worthwhile.
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