The only organization dedicated solely to helping state boards advance equity and excellence in public education.


The Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) encourages states to rethink their assessment and accountability systems. Before the law goes into effect, states can utilize the flexibility offered under existing federal funds to streamline their assessment frameworks. This policy update highlights two states —Illinois and Tennessee—that have taken the initiative to evaluate and inventory their systems. It outlines ways other states can follow suit.


Flexibility for Streamlining Tests





Featured Items

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States’ Role in Transforming High School: Evidence, Trends, and the Path Forward

High school sits at the intersection of everything states want for their young people, yet many young people say high school is not working for them. State leaders have numerous levers to incentivize high school transformation.
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Preparing Principals to Lead Innovative High Schools

By better aligning principal preparation, licensure, and support systems, state boards of education can unlock the potential of innovative high school models.
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School Improvement and Accountability

The authors in this issue share what they have learned about what is most likely to move the needle on student learning and how to ensure states and districts are directing resources toward what matters most for improving outcomes

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