The nation's next President will face a host of challenges, among them the economy, health care, an aging population, energy, the environment, and security at home and aboard. In this open letter, the leaders of higher education coordinating and governing boards across the country urge the 2012 presidential candidates to make improving the effectiveness of the American educational system a centerpiece of their campaign and administration. They contend that without a stronger education system, there will be lack of human capital and technological know-how to solve any of the nation's short and long-term problems. This open letter offers an analysis of the educational needs of the United States and what it will take to meet them. (Contains 6 resources.)