BUILDING A NEW MIDDLE CLASS IN THE KNOWLEDGE ECONOMY.

In this paper I argue for a new set of pathways to the middle class in the U.S. for those currently left behind in our economy. First I analyze the levels of income and education needed to achieve middle-class status in America, why too few Americans obtain such education levels, and the trends in middle-wage occupational growth where such education would be valued. Then I outline a set of policy goals that would help millions more Americans enter the middle class, along with specific proposals to help get us there. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]