The company has been focusing its energy on developing cloud computing as they strive to be one of the key players in the next generation of network services.

FORBES: Pressure On Margins And Lower Profits Spark Cisco Sell Off Afterhours

One remedy might lie in the creation of powerful regional school commissioners, who could demand changes, send in improvement teams when things go awry and generally strive to outdo one another.

ECONOMIST: Schools reform

In contrast to most countries, where pay is centrally negotiated, competing American campuses strive to outbid one another for talent.

ECONOMIST: A cardinal in cyberspace