Local residents are encouraged to come together this fall for a discussion of some of the toughest public policy issues facing our community and our nation.

The Kansas City Public Library and Consensus are partnering to present the Harry’s Front Porch Forums scheduled for Mondays – October 20, November 17, and December 8 – in the Truman Forum at the Plaza Branch, 4801 Main St. All three programs begin at 6:30 p.m.

Monday, December 15 – Too Many Children Left Behind: How Can We Close the Achievement Gap? Too many low-income and minority children are falling behind their peers in school, an achievement gap that the U.S. can’t afford to ignore. What can be done to close it?

The forums are designed to allow attendees to have a civil conversation on even the most contentious issues. Participants receive background information in advance and work in small groups led by trained moderators. Afterward, Consensus will report on the results.

Consensus is a nonprofit organization that puts the public in public policy. Consensus believes that regular citizens can learn, work through issues, and find practical solutions. For more information, visit www.consensuskc.org.