Colorado is a national leader in reimagining the education-to-career pipeline, with high schools playing a critical role in that work. On May 20, 2025, Governor Jared Polis signed an Executive Order (EO), “Reimagining the Future of the Postsecondary Talent Development System in Colorado,” which builds on the state’s work to break down barriers between K-12, higher education, and the workforce. The EO calls for interagency collaboration to reimagine the future of the postsecondary talent development system in the state.

State leaders have expanded work-based learning and apprenticeship programs, incentivized local innovation, and explored new assessment and accountability models, with the goal of supporting the development of high-demand, durable skills. The state has made significant strides in advancing high school transformation, with an emphasis on personalized learning, career and technical education (CTE), and dual-enrollment opportunities. A critical component of this work has been the state’s High School Innovative Learning Opportunities Pilot Program (ILOP). Launched in 2019, the program provides flexibility around instructional hour requirements, enabling local districts to offer high school students a wide range of learning experiences beyond the classroom.

The state’s focus on postsecondary success also extends to its data system. Colorado’s Pathways to Prosperity Statewide Longitudinal Data System enables anyone to view postsecondary enrollment data and progress for any high school’s graduating class, including enrollment in higher education, first-year persistence, and credit attainment. Moreover, Colorado is one of only a few states to include data on enrollment in out-of-state institutions of higher education.

To further advance these efforts, state leaders could develop resources for high school educators that support their capacity to effectively implement powerful learning experiences.