Many changes in spending habits that most Americans first saw as temporary have taken hold, perhaps for good, some economists say.

“In Hawaii, which ranks near bottom in national achievement, the school year has been reduced by 17 furlough Fridays in which schools will be closed. The Superintendent, Pat Hamamoto, although agreeing that students will suffer due to less learning time, also said that the schools will try to cram in as much teaching as they can.”

Jackie Robinson Foundation executive cites own experience and reminds college students that it’s never too soon to make contacts.