This report is intended to provide a framework for state-level policy and planning in relationship to postsecondary education's role in workforce development. Underlying the report is a set of principles and priorities designed to reflect and shape current policy agendas, and which will address the needs of college-bound high school graduates, workers needing retraining or upgrading of skills, unemployed and underemployed workers, and employers. In separate sections the report covers topics such as: the role of postsecondary education as a factor in workforce development; broadening the school-to-work framework; building a collaborative system of education and training; capitalizing on the distinct roles of learning providers; improving learner productivity; helping learners make informed choices; connecting learning and work, and defining skills needed by new employees; and supporting teachers and faculty. In a final section the report defines an agenda for state higher education boards that includes high school feedback and admissions, articulation with and transfer to postsecondary education, follow-up of program completers and better employer feedback, integration of classroom-based and work-based learning, and effective coordination and planning. The names of participants and institutional leaders at two 1996 conferences on this topic in Racine, Wisconsin, and Denver, Colorado, are appended to the report. (Contains 11 references.) (CH)