For decades, the education leaders in the United States have heard that same resounding call: to mind the gap of student achievement. State boards of education have been laser focused on the gaps among subgroups since the early 1970s. Yet there has been little success in actually closing them. Until we mind the many subgaps and fissures that bedevil our complex educational system, we will not close the larger achievement gap that looms in front of the majority of our students.


Mind the Gaps





Featured Items

Annual Conference 2026

It's that time of year again: Registration is now open for NASBE's Annual Conference this October! Join us in Baltimore, Maryland, for bold conversations, big ideas, and meaningful connections.
Smart Businesswoman speech or Speaking with microphone in Seminar hall, hand gesturing protesting or belief for explaining in conference room. Speaker tedtalk is vocalized form of communication humans i

Five Questions to Ask about Having Student Members on State Boards

Twenty-four state boards of education have at least one student board member serving in a voting or nonvoting capacity. But inclusion alone does not guarantee meaningful, effective participation.
Hiker holding a compass, navigating through a stunning mountain landscape, searching for the right path on an adventurous journey i

States Elevate Math, Career Education in New Round of Strategic Plans

In 2025–26, 18 states adopted or revised a strategic plan for education.

Upcoming Events

From the States