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4. Assess and Intervene

Use assessment measures to inform students about their college readiness and close identified gaps.

Many students graduate from high school unprepared for two- and four-year colleges or specialized training programs, as evidenced by the large number of students who are required to take remedial courses as a condition of enrollment. To ensure students' readiness for the rigors of postsecondary education, schools must assess all students and, as early as possible, assist those who are not adequately prepared.

Reviewing a variety of existing assessments and information sources from as early as upper elementary school can help high schools build a clearer picture of which students are on track for college. Useful information can include GPAs, course completion, standardized assessments, and local college placement exam results. Schools can then work with students who are not on track and provide supports to help them succeed in their coursework.