Martin Center Publishes “Blueprint for Reform: Academic Standards” Policy Paper

The James G. Martin Center for Academic Renewal has published its seventh paper in the “Blueprint for Reform” series, “Blueprint for Reform: Academic Standards.” The new paper recommends steps that policymakers can take to protect education and academic standards. 

Recommendations include establishing “consistent minimum admissions criteria, including grade point averages, standardized testing, and adequate prerequisite course preparation” and ending racial preferences in college admissions.

Martin Center president Jenna .A Robinson said, “In order to succeed in college, students need both grit and strong academic preparation. This Blueprint outlines the best ways for universities to ensure that students who are admitted are ready to succeed.”

The paper provides specific policy guidelines for legislators, university board members, faculty governing committees, and other higher education decision makers. The Blueprint also includes a model admissions policy that universities can adopt. The document backs up its recommendation with scholarly studies and resources for further reading.

New policy reform recommendations on different topics will be released by the Martin Center regularly.