The new partnership, known as the "Nevada Collaborative for Success," is designed to support higher performance standards, both in K-12 and higher ed. The partnership will focus on support for the new K-12 standards and tests and how they will effect a smooth transition to career preparation in higher education.

"This collaboration will provide a great opportunity for all Nevada students," said Chancellor Richard Jarvis. "The Board of Regents' action sends a strong signal about their desire to collaborate with all those involved in education to improve the level of access for our students. It also conveys their commitment to continue to focus on the quality of education provided by our institutions."

The Nevada Collaborative for Success was created in response to the Nevada Education Reform Act of 1997 where Governor Miller and the Nevada Legislature called for the implementation of standards-based education reform.

Working together, the UCCSN and K-12 schools have developed a four-part strategy to improve academic success for Nevada's students by:

• Raising the level of academic achievement for all students in K-16.
• Aligning pre-service and in-service teacher education with the state- established standards and assessments.
• Reducing impediments and providing incentives for students to complete high school and enter postsecondary programs that support their successful transition to careers and life.
• Ensuring continued success of the collaboration by seeking funding for mentor teachers; programs to support new teachers, leadership programs that focus on standards; and assessment of effectiveness of standards for K-16.

The collaboration will include representatives from each campus of the UCCSN, State Department of Education, school districts, parents, business community, NEA and Nevada legislators. The first meeting of the group on Nov. 7 will act as kick-off for the K-16 partnership.

Comprised of two doctoral-granting universities, four comprehensive community colleges and one environmental research institution, the University and Community College System of Nevada serves the educational and job training needs of the nation's fastest growing state. As Nevada's only system of higher education, the UCCSN provides educational opportunities to more than 76,000 students.