• Streamline the pre-K–8 curriculum to emphasize the most critical topics
• Use what is clearly known from rigorous educational research
• Recognize that the role of classroom teachers is crucial and find ways to attract, prepare, identify, and reward good teachers
• Balance student-centered and teacher-directed learning
• Improve the quality of NAEP and state assessments and increase their emphasis on critical knowledge and skills
• Continue to build capacity for rigorous educational research to inform policy and practice