Teaching and learning are changing drastically in the wake of COVID-19, and once-skeptical K-12 system and school leaders are increasingly responding to students’ academic needs with competency-based learning models. State boards of education and other state leaders should examine the rationale and structures that underpin these student-centered solutions and work to transform their systems.


Transforming Learning through Competency-Based Education





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

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NASBE Series Highlights State Innovation to Transform High Schools in Washington, Kentucky, and Indiana

The Washington, Kentucky, and Indiana state boards of education are advancing bold policies to create more personalized, flexible, and future-ready high school experiences.
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Supporting Principals in the Science of Reading

State boards of education can deepen the impact of their literacy initiatives by ensuring that principals are equipped to implement schoolwide instructional changes.
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Transitions

State policymakers have a role in ensuring that schools work together to prepare students to transition well.

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