The awards are based on each school s improvement in these two areas compared to its own past performance. Public schools that maintain high standards also are eligible for cash awards. Schools combined scores on the assessments are compared to a baseline score. Schools that show a significant improvement are eligible for incentive grants. Comprehensive AVTSs, where students spend their entire day and take their PSSA at their school, are eligible for achievement awards based upon both improved PSSA scores and job-related placements.
Effort is measured by increases in school-attendance rates.
A school committee, chaired by the school principal and including parents, determines how to spend the grant money. All recipients must ensure that they spend at least 50 percent of their award on improving instructional programs, including professional development for teachers. Up to 25 percent may be spent on teacher rewards. The committee determines how to spend the remaining amount. Each school is required to submit a detailed financial report to the Department of Education, which outlines how the money was spent.