Good data are important for education systems in crisis. As state and local education leaders, including state boards of education, contemplate the future, they should identify the data that parents, educators, and leaders need in order to act. Systems of assessment and accountability must evolve to meet that need, and state leaders must beware the dangers of acting without the right information.


Reshaping Assessment and Accountability in 2021 and Beyond





Also In this Issue

Reshaping Assessment and Accountability in 2021 and Beyond

By Bonnie O'Keefe, Andrew Rotherham, and Jennifer O'Neal Schiess

Data about system performance will continue to lie at the heart of school improvement.





The Role of Technology in Reimagining School

By Kristen Amundson and Andrew Ko

Pandemic or no, states ought to press for better technology for personalized learning and making staff and students safer.





The Greenfield Path to School Improvement

By Frederick Hess

State Policymakers can help clear away the rubble that impedes vibrant reform.





Transforming Learning through Competency-Based Education

By Susan Patrick

States are adopting a range of policies to personalize student learning and move away from seat-time rules.






Seize the Moment: Double Down on Authentic Learning

By Monica Martinez and Dennis McGrath

Project-based learning tied to students' communities and interests readily makes the leap across modes of instruction.





Moving toward Competency-Based Professional Learning

By Melissa Tooley and Joseph Hood

Microcredentials embedded in effective learning systems can promote teacher growth, advancement, and retention.





Kansas Schools Build Resilience amid Redesign

By Valerie Norville

Schools opt to change their approaches to learning and see gains in adaptability.







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.
Fashion Design Utensils i

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

Upcoming Events

From the States