LAS VEGAS – A new report released today encourages states to increase their work with high school students to improve their mastery of English and math to better prepare them for college and the workforce.

The American Diploma Project (ADP) released its benchmarks in an effort to help return the value of a high school diploma in today’s competitive environment. Nevada was one of five states enlisted as a research partner for the project. The full report is available at www.achieve.org.

“Nevada’s standards for high school graduation have meshed quite well with the expectations of higher education and the workforce,” said Dr. Jane Nichols, chancellor of the University and Community College System of Nevada (UCCSN). “We have also found gaps that need to be filled and are working with our colleagues in K-12 to improve our students’ chances for success after graduation.”

The ADP benchmarks are based on both statistical analysis of employment data and extensive research involving more than 300 faculty members from two- and four-year postsecondary institutions, front-line managers, and high school educators.

The UCCSN has been involved with the American Diploma Project for nearly 2-1/2 years and was selected to participate through a competitive grant process. Leading the effort in Nevada were Nichols; Michael Hillerby, chief of staff for Gov. Kenny Guinn; Ray Bacon, executive director of the Nevada Manufacturing Association; and Keith Rheault, interim superintendent of the Nevada State Board of Education.

“Preparing our students for the careers of the 21st century is one our greatest challenges,” said Hillerby. “The ADP has helped identify the skills needed to succeed and the educational path needed to achieve those skills. Working together, our K-12 and higher education systems can provide the workforce needed to attract the kinds of businesses and jobs Nevada needs to ensure its economic future."

“As part of the implementation of our Master Plan, we will continue to provide reports to the public on the important aspects of accountability as mentioned by the American Diploma Project: learning, remediation, persistence, and degree completion,” added Nichols.

According to the report, many states have sought to boost their graduation expectations by raising course requirements and giving exit exams. These exams often measure 8th or 9th grade content and seldom take into full account the intellectual challenges that graduates face in college courses or in jobs that keep families out of poverty.

The ADP cited that at least 28 percent of students entering two- and four-year colleges immediately need remedial English or math. Of recent Nevada high school graduates in 2002-03, 38.5 percent enrolled in at least one remedial math or English class in the fall 2003 semester.

“We are proud to be part of this ambitious project and look forward to working with our partners in the K-12 and business communities to create a seamless system of education for Nevadans,” said Nichols.

Participation in the ADP project was a stimulus for the creation of the statewide P-16 Council which is comprised of representatives from higher education, K-12, business and community leaders, and parents. The council is currently focusing its efforts on ways to improve the sharing of information relative to a student’s progress through the state’s educational system.