In a race to catch up, school districts are putting an increased emphasis on assessments to ferret out students' weak spots.
Chronic absenteeism is already a rampant problem that is continuing to worsen, particularly in school districts with low-income students.
She also said products need to be engaging for students, while also providing evidence that the methods used are effective.
"Districts need products that work," she said.
"They don't need products that look sexy or that have, you know, exciting front ends, they need products that are actually going to work and support students to improve learning."