Ope Actions

In partnership with the postsecondary education community, the U.S. Department of Education can support excellence in postsecondary education for low-income, minority, and students with disabilities by considering the following steps:

1. OPE should continue to increase its emphasis on K-16 programs (such as GEAR UP and TRIO) that encourage students to think early about college, take the right classes, and begin financial planning. Through partnerships at the local level and partnerships with foundations and businesses, we can leverage federal dollars even more effectively. The more these partnerships focus on systemic change, the greater the effect.

2. OPE should consider activities that expand on initiatives like the E-rate to bring technology more quickly and pervasively to postsecondary institutions that serve underserved populations, perhaps through our Institutional Development programs.

3. OPE should expand its focus to pay far more attention to graduate education and international education than it has in the past.

4. OPE should advocate for research on the value of software and technology based learning for postsecondary students with disabilities, in particular for students with learning disabilities.

5. OPE should work with accreditation bodies and federal entities with governance authority regarding the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.

6. OPE should convene meetings with leaders in postsecondary schools who are knowledgeable about students with disabilities and can make recommendations regarding a seamless K-16 system for all students.

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