In 2001, participants had the opportunity to address particular challenges to the Wake County Public Schools in addressing Goal 2003. Along the way, participants also had an opportunity to discuss Goal 2003 from a variety of community perspectives, including those of parents, teachers, school administrators and taxpayers. Participants finally had the opportunity to continue to align community programs with school system priorities so that the community as a whole can move forward in ensuring that every child in Wake County achieves academic success.

The top five issues of interest to participants were:
1. Closing achievement gaps in our schools.
2. Resources: Finding the money to create and implement change as well as deal with growth.
3. Find ways to make Wake classrooms and schools smaller.
4. Find creative ways to retain our best teachers.
5. Find ways to continue to recruit the best teachers to Wake County.