From stronger schools to safer streets, these top 10 stories show how governments can deliver results and improve lives.
It’s been a turbulent year for the federal government, for those who serve in it, and all those across the country who rely on it – starting with the DOGE cuts and ending with the longest government shutdown in U.S. history.
And yet, at the state and local level, we’ve seen moments of bipartisan progress. Results-driven government leaders – in states across the political spectrum, in big cities and small towns – have been testing bold ideas, borrowing and adapting solutions that worked elsewhere, and shifting dollars toward more effective programs.
One of the highlights of my year has been launching this Substack. Working on these stories each week gives me so much hope for what government can accomplish when it invests in what works.
To close out the year, I’m resharing the “top 10” stories that we’ve featured this year. From preventing homelessness to reducing traffic fatalities, from helping more children read on grade level to responding to 911 calls with the right services, these stories celebrate governments improving lives every day.
I hope you will read them, revisit them and feel inspired and reenergized as we head into the new year.
Virginia Beach (VA) adapts proven early learning model – and delivers for kids
The city’s early learning program contributed to an almost 8-point increase in the share of kindergartners meeting literacy benchmarks between 2020 and 2022, despite pandemic disruptions.
Colorado achieves universal preschool for every four-year-old
Access to preschool can improve a family’s economic trajectory, allowing parents to work more and helping prepare children for school. By simplifying enrollment and expanding access, 70% of Colorado’s four-year-olds are now enrolled in state-supported preschool, up from just 25% two years ago.
Portland (OR) helps students succeed through high-impact tutoring
Portland Public Schools paired a new literacy curriculum with a $1.2 million investment in evidence-based tutoring in 50 elementary schools. The results: 46% average growth in foundational reading skills for kindergarteners, 40% for first graders, 47% for second graders, and 42% for third graders.
Minnesota invests in free school meals for every student
In Minnesota – where one in four households with children face food insecurity – state leaders decided to provide free breakfast and lunch to every child. Families are saving an average of $1,000 per student per year, and 40% more students are eating breakfast.
Tampa (FL) invests in smart, fast infrastructure projects – and saves lives
Tampa ranked as the fourth most dangerous metro area in America for pedestrians. Through effective planning and quick-build projects, the city has reduced traffic fatalities by over 70% since 2021, with serious injuries down by half.
Hoboken (NJ) builds flood resilience while expanding recreational space
Long vulnerable to severe flooding, Hoboken has advanced its resiliency efforts with support from federal infrastructure dollars. A $6 million Bipartisan Infrastructure Law investment helped it expand Southwest Resiliency Park, which can now store up to 460,000 gallons of stormwater, while providing new recreational green space for residents.
Santa Clara County (CA) prevents homelessness for 33,000+ at risk residents
The county’s model – providing fast and flexible financial assistance to keep residents housed – is paying off. Over 90% of those assisted remain housed two years later, and every $1 invested returns $2.47 in public benefits.
St. Petersburg (FL) reimagines emergency response
By dispatching trained mental health teams to respond to nonviolent 911 calls, the city is freeing up police officers to focus on crime. The teams are connecting residents with the help they need, and diverting 97% of responses away from police, hospitalization or crisis units.
Milwaukee County (WI) uses data & evidence to slow drug overdose epidemic
Milwaukee County’s first guiding principle for deploying opioid settlement funds: enhance programs that have a proven record of success. Guided by data-driven decision-making, the county saw a remarkable 30% drop in overdose deaths in 2024 and is on track for a third year of decline.
Tennessee reduces recidivism with evidence-based programs
To qualify for state funding, reentry programs must be rated “highest” or “second-highest” in the Results First Clearinghouse. Tennessee’s statewide recidivism rate fell from 46% in 2020 to 42% in 2024 – making communities safer and reducing costs for taxpayers.
We look forward to sharing many more stories like these in 2026. We’ll be featuring more posts from guest authors, including bipartisan leaders and government reformers who are improving how governments deliver for residents and building trust in government.
Keep sending us your ideas, sharing your feedback and passing along your favorite “what works” examples. We will see you in January!