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Think It Up was created to improve the learning experience in America.

This national education initiative reframed the public discussion about education to encourage the creation of a culture of excitement about learning everywhere in America and to build a sense of optimism about the potential of classrooms across the country.

Think It Up officially kicked off on Friday, September 11, 2015, when ABC, CBS, FOX and NBC simultaneously broadcast a live, star-studded fundraising event in support of the national education initiative. The program spotlighted powerful stories of teachers and students working together. It included live musical performances from Justin Bieber, Kacey Musgraves, and Big Sean, comedic sketches and more.

Think It Up invited 7th – 12th grade public and charter school students to work with their teachers to develop projects that draw on their passions and help pursue their educational goals. The projects entailed the rigorous skill development that prepares American youth for post-high school life, helping pave the way for career success, regardless of their path. Posted on thinkitup.org, in collaboration with DonorsChoose.org, the student-powered, teacher-led projects were crowdfunded by citizen donors beginning in September 2015.

Think It Up was made possible through the generous support of corporations, foundations and philanthropists. Major supporters included The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, ExxonMobil and Ashoka’s Start Empathy Initiative, as well as founding collaborator, XQ: The Super School Project.