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


In recent years, state board of education members from across the country have expressed a growing concern about what lies ahead for students after high school. Are they prepared for postsecondary education? The world of work? To participate in a democracy? To be engaged members of a community? To navigate financial decisions? In short, are they prepared for life?

This report details the Career Readiness Study Group’s recommendations for how state boards of education can begin to explore, expand, and enhance career readiness efforts in their states as part of the broader effort to ensure students are prepared for college, careers, and civic life.


Bolstering the Second C in College and Career Ready





Featured Items

Group of high school students throwing colorful confetti in the air, celebrating graduation on a sunny day i

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.
Two female teachers sitting at a table, having a discussion in the lobby area in the school they work at in Gateshead, North East England. They are talking about school issues together while using a laptop. i

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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