The Challenge

The P-16 educational system is often described as a "pipeline" that moves students from one educational level to another preparing them to emerge with the necessary knowledge and skills to be successful at the next level, and ultimately prepared for postsecondary education. In reality, especially for the underserved student, there is no continuity between levels. There are enormous holes or breaks in the pipeline between all levels in terms of standards or curricular expectations, assessment of mastery, teaching and organizational practices and support for students. The result is a fragmented, disjointed approach that disenfranchises students and under-prepares them at every level. In order for states, school districts, and individual schools to ensure that all students will be prepared for postsecondary education or work, change will need to take place at multiple levels inclusively focused on cultural values and attitudes, governance structures, organizational structures, and the use of resources.

What is Needed?

It is clear from PCN onsite work with states, districts, and schools that an aligned P-20 system with four qualities is needed:

• An interconnected, focused goal on preparing all students for the next level and the final levels of postsecondary education and work.
• Shared responsibility for the success of all students at all levels.
• Common language and descriptions of mastery, success, and assessment.
• Consistent practices particularly in the development of a common data system.

The following matrix outlines:

• Six critical steps for taking action
• Research supporting the steps
• General Tasks
• College Readiness for All tools that can support action