The United States education system is in need of change and reform. It has declined since the 1970s with lower graduation rates than ever before. Other countries like China and South Korea have rapidly expanded their education systems and are graduating more engineers. Compared to other nations, fewer US students take advanced science and math courses. High school dropout rates are also a problem, with negative outcomes for those who don't graduate like unemployment, poverty and poor health. President Obama wants education reform to better motivate and prepare students for 21st century success.