Support the continued development and utilization of comprehensive state data systems, and the advancement of an integrated network of state data systems, based on common data elements, to serve as a privacy-protected state-based system of student level longitudinal data.

Advocate to hold states accountable for maintaining specific state appropriation levels to public higher education whenever the federal government provides additional, general support funds beyond historical, programmatic funding to ensure that federal dollars are not used to supplant existing state operating dollars.

Oppose any attempts to impose federal cost containment measures on institutions.

♦ Encourage federal recognition of voluntary reporting structures such as the Voluntary System of Accountability (VSA).

◆ Focus national educational completion goals and federal evaluation efforts on the absolute number of Americans with a degree or certificate, rather than solely on institutional graduation rates.

Work to devise more accurate student progress and completion measures that encompass the persistence and success of all students, including transfer and part-time students.

Support integrity in federal student financial aid programs and strengthen the original intent of the “90/10 Rule.” This can be done by including all federal sources of income in the 90 percent calculation.

Support strong, meaningful partnerships between state and local education agencies and institutions of higher education to support teacher education; standards, curricula and assessment alignment; and accountability.

Support the strengthening and funding of high-quality clinical experiences in all traditional teacher preparation programs and require that all federally funded alternative teacher preparation programs include high-quality clinical experiences. Clinical experiences are essential components in preparation programs, especially when preparing teacher candidates to teach diverse students in high-needs rural and urban schools.