"A common vision of a well-integrated educational system extending from birth through postsecondary education is essential." (SHEEO, 2003)

Resource for Presidents

As a college president you understand that student preparation among incoming students is a key concern on college campuses but that time and resources to attend to the issue can be scarce. Use the links below to learn why and how higher education needs to be involved in helping all high school students to become college ready. Read national and state level research regarding the need for alignment and learn best practices from other college presidents and system leaders about your role in these efforts.

Case Studies and Testimonials

Read the following case studies for ideas and examples of best practices as you pursue postsecondary reforms in your state and on your campus.

Higher Education's Role in Defining College Readiness

More and more states have started to work collaboratively with leaders in K-12 and postsecondary education, businesses, communities, and policymakers to align high school graduation standards with expectations for success in entry-level college coursework and quality jobs.

Making the Case

Only postsecondary education leaders and faculty can communicate what they expect entering students to know and what knowledge and skills will prepare students for success in college-level courses. Appropriately connecting students from high school graduation to postsecondary success requires higher education to be engaged and demonstrate leadership in K-12 efforts such as standards setting, curriculum development, determination of high school graduation requirements and selection (or development of) college-ready assessments.

National Picture

Only one-half of American high school graduates are taking the courses we know are most likely to promote persistence and degree completion in postsecondary education. As a result, degree completion at America’s higher education institutions is flat while our international competitors make gains.

State-by-State

Since college-ready expectations should be defined at the state-level to permit the broadest possible student readiness, state comparisons are useful. Use the resources in this chapter to see state-specific data, compare states and see sample state alignment policies.

Webinar on Common Core Standards for Postsecondary

On Monday, May 3, the American Council on Education (ACE) and Achieve co-sponsored a webinar on the implications of the Common Core State Standards Initiative for colleges and universities. The initiative is a state-led effort managed by the National Governors Association Center for Best Practices and the Council of Chief State School Officers.

Webinar on Common Core Standards for Postsecondary

On Monday, May 3, the American Council on Education (ACE) and Achieve co-sponsored a webinar on the implications of the Common Core State Standards Initiative for colleges and universities.