In this series of briefs we provide an introduction to important areas for effective K–12/higher education collaboration and alignment. Each brief tackles a different issue: 1) Overall introduction; 2) Defining college- and career-readiness; 3) Adopting college- and career-ready assessments; 4) Developing and using college readiness courses; 5) Aligning gateway college courses; and 6) Redesigning educator preparation programs. Each brief describes a different alignment challenge, and contains practical advice for action, important resources and state examples.

The series is based on our experience as the national director for the Core to College project and the experience of the State Higher Education Executive Officers (SHEEO) with the College and Career Readiness Partnership.