The Council of Chief State School Officers (CCSSO) is a nonpartisan, nationwide, nonprofit organization of public officials who head departments of elementary and secondary education in the states, the District of Columbia, the Department of Defense Education Activity, the Bureau of Indian Education and the five U.S. extra-state jurisdictions. As an organization, we are committed to ensuring that all students participating in our public education system -- regardless of background -- graduate prepared for college, careers, and life. To realize this, CCSSO brings together dedicated leaders and exceptional ideas to achieve measurable progress for every student. Our work includes supporting states as they implement new standards, reinvent systems that develop effective teachers, explore and adopt new technologies, and navigate political turmoil-all in the pursuit of helping students succeed. Chris Minnich, CCSSO's executive director, says, "We are guided by one aspiration: to ensure that by 2017 we are making significant progress in preparing all students for success in college, careers, and life. CCSSO is committed to closing achievement gaps and ensuring significant academic gains are made by all students regardless of background. Why this aspiration? Student achievement is the cornerstone of everything we do."