Central Texas college readiness rates improved for the third consecutive year, according to the Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce's annual K12 Metro Austin Education Progress Reports.

The reports released April 6 indicate that 60 percent of Central Texas high school seniors are college-ready, which is an increase of 17 percentage points over the last six years.

"That [college readiness] had the most significant impact," said Drew Scheberle, senior vice president of education and talent development for the chamber. "Central Texas school districts are readying for the new accountability system, which is going to organize around college readiness."

The rates for high school seniors who directly enroll in college have been flat since 2007. According to the chamber, enrollment has been affected by the economy and the increasing costs of attending college.

The initiative began seven years ago as a way to help improve public education and prepare students for college. This year, 11 area school districts participated in the progress reports, which track student performance trends that are most important to the business community. To view full reports, visit: www.austinchamber.com/education-talent.