Atlanta — September 6, 2006

Commenting on the 2006 “Measuring Up” report slated for release tomorrow by the National Center for Public Policy in Higher Education, University System of Georgia Chancellor Erroll B. Davis said: “The report shows that Georgia is trending in a positive direction with regard to our educational outcomes, and progress is being made on many fronts. “

Davis emphasized that “the data and analyses assess all levels of education in the state,” referencing that “Measuring Up” is a report card on all of Georgia’s educational sectors – public and private, secondary and postsecondary. Davis also noted the collaborative work currently being conducted in the state that will address the challenges noted in the report.

“We are clearly not where we would like to be,” Davis said. “When one sector fails, we all fail. We are working to create a more holistic approach, and we are optimistic our efforts will pay off over time. “

Georgia again received a failing score on college affordability, despite the hugely popular HOPE scholarship and grant program. Low grades on the affordability index have nagged the state since the initial report’s release in 2002. Georgia does not offer a “need-based” financial aid program, as do most of the states that received high marks in this category; yet, the University System of Georgia’s tuition and fees are cited nationally as being among the lowest.

The state’s highest grade was received for its “Completion” score, which assesses the percentage of students who complete certificate, two-year and four-year degree programs on time. Georgia scored the highest among the 50 states on this ranking, with the greatest improvements recorded in certificate program completion.

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