The way forward to better assessment begins with the conception of assessment not as a single test but as a coherent "system" of measures. Coherent systems must be composed of valid measures of learning and be horizontally, developmentally, and vertically aligned to serve classroom, school, and district improvement. Coherent assessment systems are comprised of component measures that each reflect significant learning goals and provide accurate information for intended purposes. This paper provides recommendations on coherent assessment systems that improve student learning. (Contains 1 table, 5 figures, and 2 footnotes.)