As the American economy has shifted, so too has state leaders' understanding of what education systems and institutions need to provide students to set them on a path to long-term success. Is the education system meeting those needs? The true indicator of success is not whether students cross the graduation stage; it is what happens next for them. By prioritizing the most important outcomes in state accountability and reporting structures, state boards of education have a tremendous opportunity to set a new path forward for districts, schools, educators, and the students they serve. This article discusses how state leaders can drive real system improvements by rewarding K-12 schools for helping students succeed after high school.