This document introduces the Student Teacher Accountability Reporting System (STARS), the educational data collection and reporting model selected by the New Mexico Public Education Department (NMPED) to improve the quality and timeliness of data, analysis, and information in meeting increased reporting and analysis requirements. The STARS model builds upon the strengths of public education partners represented across state, district, and local levels, incorporating a two-way flow of information: aggregating necessary data upward from respective schools and districts to the state to comply with state and federal reporting requirements and general systems management, while providing disaggregated state data back down from the state to districts and schools. Expected benefits include: (1) Providing appropriate personnel secure access to student information; (2) Providing decision makers with better data on which to base decisions on educational initiatives; and (3) Providing standard reports for use by teachers, school and district administrators, and PED staff. After completion of a pilot program, the project team will begin preparing for a statewide implementation. All New Mexico school districts will be required to submit data to STARS in the fall of 2006 for the 2006-2007 school year. Primary methods for subsequent communications about STARS will be via the STARS website and email.