Consistently ranking near the bottom in educational performance measures when compared to the other 49 states, Alaska has a compelling need to stem the losses from its educational pipeline. Without a change, Alaska’s citizens of tomorrow are foregoing the collective and individual benefits of postsecondary education and workforce preparedness. The first step, which Alaska has already taken, was to ask “Why isn’t Alaska doing better?” Having asked that question, the next step - one that the Alaska Commission on Postsecondary Education (ACPE) to take in partnership with the Alaska Department of Education and Early Development, the Alaska Department of Labor, the University of Alaska, and ACPE’s research advisory body - is answering that question, both at the individual student level, and at the program level.

In preparation for this next step, Alaska invested in a data summit during the summer of 2009, followed by a comprehensive evaluation of the data availability and capabilities that existed in the state.  Based on the findings of that evaluation, Alaska gained valuable insight into its current data situation and is poised to take the next step, pursuing funds to effectively and efficiently address education data system needs.  A major component that Alaska will leverage is its capability to collaborate with state and local agencies and entities to develop cost-efficient, sustainable systems to address policy and program needs. Learn more about reseach and policy analysis efforts.