Federal agencies announce FY 2026 program to support state testing and accountability systems.
The U.S. Departments of Education (ED) and Labor (DOL) announced the Fiscal Year 2026 competition for the Competitive Grants for State Assessments (CGSA) program, which supports state efforts to improve student assessment systems and academic accountability. The initiative follows a recent convening by the Education Department that was attended by leaders from dozens of states and territories focused on assessment practices and accountability standards. Officials said the program is intended to help states strengthen systems that measure student progress and provide information to families and educators.
“Families deserve transparent, meaningful insight into their students’ performance, and this stems from strong assessment and accountability systems,” said Assistant Secretary for the Office of Elementary and Secondary Education Kirsten Baesler.
“Strong state-assessment and accountability systems are critical supports when preparing students for employment. This partnership ensures states have the tools needed to measure students’ progress, promote academic excellence, and align learning with the skills and pathways that drive opportunity in our dynamic, thriving economy,” said Assistant Secretary for Employment and Training Henry Mack.
According to the departments, the grant competition will prioritize projects that expand formative, diagnostic, and interim assessments aligned with statewide testing systems. The effort will operate through an interagency agreement as part of broader administrative efforts related to state oversight of education programs.
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For Assistant Secretary Baesler as she collaborates with U.S. labor officials to implement the interagency agreement on improvements to student assessment systems.
- For Assistant Secretary Mack as he engages federal and state education leaders on student assessment and accountability efforts.
- For students, teachers, and families as schools work to improve learning outcomes, educational support systems, and workforce preparation opportunities.
Sources: Department of Education
