Improving the Performance of High School Students: Focusing on Connections and Transitions Taking Place in Minnesota.

Too many students entering colleges or universities find that they lack the essential skills and knowledge required for college. One reason for high school graduates' lack of preparedness for college is a serious lack of communication between the preschool-12 and postsecondary education systems. Like other states, Minnesota has focused considerable time, energy, and resources on understanding this and other challenges facing the state's students, educators, and institutions. These efforts have resulted in a number of innovative and successful initiatives, including the following, to improve students' success after high school: (1) tech prep and school to work programs to meet the needs of students with skills, talents, and interests in pursuing various technical education and career options; (2) postsecondary enrollment options and other "college credit" opportunities for college-bound students; (3) developmental education opportunities complemented by reporting and early assessment; (4) graduation standards/college preparation alignment; (5) improved documentation of student achievement; and (6) charter schools. In view of Minnesota's experience, the following general approaches were recommended to policymakers and educators interested in preparing high school students for success in postsecondary education and work: (1) initiate an information campaign to articulate preparation for post-high school success; (2) identify and support "best practices"; and (3) document student achievement. (Contains 17 references.) (MN)