Nevada has adopted a number of policies that have the potential to transform learning experiences for the state’s high schoolers. In particular, the state has taken significant steps to advance competency-based education (CBE), starting with the launch of a CBE network and pilot program through Assembly Bill 110 in 2017. This work accelerated with the development and adoption of the Nevada Portrait of a Learner, which incorporated input from thousands of Nevadans.

The state also launched the “Nevada Future of Learning Network” to help local school systems adopt learner-centered practices, with a focus on student mastery. These practices include the creation of flexible learning environments that encourage innovative approaches to teaching and learning, as well as increased support for new ways for students to demonstrate proficiency. The state also developed a course, with an associated microcredential, for teachers to integrate the competencies included in the Portrait of a Learner. In early 2024, Nevada announced a partnership with the Carnegie Foundation and ETS to co-develop new, competency-based high school assessments.

As the state continues this work, it could explore opportunities to create more flexibility from seat time requirements and to launch a statewide initiative with dedicated resources to incentivize community-based high school redesign.