Reaching Higher NH

WHO WE ARE:

Reaching Higher believes that public schools are an essential public good, and thrive when they are supported by their communities and our state. We know that:

• Strong public schools benefit students/families/communities/the state
• Public Schools bring value beyond education
• Public schools are critical to thriving communities and local economies
• Public schools provide the tools that help all students reach their full potential

Along with our fellow Granite Staters, we share a deeply held conviction that public education is one of our state's most precious assets. All of our public schools are strongly supported by their surrounding communities and our students thrive as a result of that commitment.

WHAT WE DO:

Reaaching Higher New Hampshire translates complex policy issues into clear, understandable information, empowering families, educators, community members, and decision-makers to engage meaningfully in the public educaiton system. By connecting policy aand people, we support informed advocacy and collaborative efforts that advance equitable outcomes for all students, families aand communities. During the 2026 Legislative Session, here are a few of the issues we have been following: 

• Learning and Growth
• The Teaching Profession
• Local Control of Education
• School Funding
• School Vouchers
• Open Enrollment

WHY WE DO IT:

As Horace Mann, the father of public education once noted, “Public education is the great equalizer in a democratic society." It is this belief that defines Reaching Higher’s mission and serves as the foundation for all that we do. Launched in 2015, our aim was simple: cultivate deep support for public education and assist the types of innovations necessary to help all NH students develop the skills they need to be ready for life after high school. We work hard to make NH a better place for all.

Our Values:

Public Schools as Community Good 

Ensure the benefits of public schools are felt not just by students and families, but by all members of a community, and that investment in schools reflect their value to the community.

Equity and Access for All Students

Ensure that every student in New Hampshire—regardless of geography, income, race, ability, or background—has equitable access to high-quality educational opportunities from early childhood through postsecondary education.

Lifelong Learning and Innovation

Support policies that prepare learners for a changing world—emphasizing critical thinking, career readiness, and lifelong learning through innovative educational models and flexible pathways.

Guiding Principles:

Data-Driven and Evidence-Based Policy

Promote education policies grounded in independent research, transparent data, and proven best practices, not political ideology or partisan influence.

Community and Stakeholder Engagement

Engage educators, families, students, and local communities in shaping policies that reflect the diverse needs of New Hampshire’s schools, fostering trust and collaborative problem-solving.

Transparency and Accountability

Operate with integrity and openness, ensuring that both internal practices and external policy recommendations are clear, measurable, and accountable to the public interest.