Education & Community Development on the Border

Success in the new information economy of the 21 st century requires a region to have smart, innovative workforce. At the same time, ensuring that this workforce has a high quality of life requires the development a vibrant civic culture. Hence, the continued prosperity of the border region depends critically on its investment in people and in building strong communities. Most important, the border region –far removed from the distant power centers of Washington DC and Mexico City– requires leaders and citizens who understand and take advantage of the opportunities presented by bi-national cooperation.

The greater San Diego-Tijuana region is a study in contrasts and complements. With its high tech industries and distressing levels of poverty, it is where the culture and economy of the North meets the South. Poised on the Pacific, it is where East meets West in Asian-owned assembly plants and in fusion cuisine. With Spanish style missions and shining office buildings, it is where the present meets the past. In the middle of these fascinating paradoxes, this region presents tremendous opportunities and significant challenges. The Trans-Border Institute works actively to help take advantage of the possibilities and address the difficulties faced by the border region.

The border region confronts unique educational challenges, including lower high school completion rates and higher rates of bilingualism than average in Mexico and the United States.

TBI works closely with the USD Center for Community Service-Learning (CS-L) to promote active learning and service in the cross border region.