While most SAS schools emphasize group instruction, teachers look closely at each individual student's performance. As they learn faster, they graduate to higher performing groups. But if they have difficulties, they're assigned to slower groups. Both teachers and students monitor the performance charts posted for placement decisions. But in the end, it's standardized tests that count.
Students practice taking tests, and the school makes clear that tests are important.
Students, in turn, rise to the challenge. Before SAS, many didn't even show up for the tests. They had no idea of the impact on their education. It's part of our strategy that teachers let students know what all this testing means. We want them to be consistent and fair in following through because we've found that inconsistencies in meting out punishments is what causes many discipline problems in the schools.