States across the nation are turning their aspirations for college and career readiness for all students into action. They are moving beyond policy and practice centered on a floor--aiming for students to attain minimal proficiency on basic academic standards--to a new focus on ensuring that all students develop the capacity to demonstrate mastery of content and skills toward and beyond college and career readiness. This report is designed to provide guidance to state leaders to ensure that their efforts translate into the right actions in districts and schools and then into solid results for students. Included are resources, four endnotes, and an appendix: States with Policies Allowing, Encouraging, or Requiring Competency-Based Graduation Requirements, Advancement or Credit.