In California we hear many different acronyms around Accountability: API, AYP, NCLB, STAR.

API - Annual Performance Index -
A score ranging from 200 - 1000 that represents a school's reults on statewide assessment.

AYP - Adequate Yearly Progress
Each state is required under NCLB to implement an accountability system that will ensure that Adequate Yearly Progress is being made towards closing the achievement gap. Targets which schools and districts are measured on are the testing participation rates, the percent of students ranking proficient and above in both Language Arts and Math, and the API or Annual Performance Index.

CAHSEE - California High School Exit Exam
This test is first given sophomore year in high school. Success in both the math and language arts portions will be required to receive a diploma as of 2006. This is a requirement by the California State Board of Education.

NCLB - No Child Left Behind
A Federal program addressing assessment, accountability and teacher quality. The measures are intended to close achievement gaps between all students. Requires all students to be Proficient and Above by 2014. Teachers must be highly qualified which includes obtaining afull state teacher certification and holds a license to teach, holds a bachelor's degree and has demonstrated competence in academic subjects in which they teach.

STAR - Standardized Testing and Reporting
California standardized testing to check accountability towards state standards. These are the tests used to determine API, AYP and success towards NCLB.