A decade ago, amid concerns about a growing education gap with some other developed countries, governors set a goal of making American students world leaders in math and science by 2000. Yet today, two-thirds are not even rated as proficient in those areas. Yet, standard setting has rapidly become commonplace and even some of those who grumble about its uneven implementation say the overall effect has been beneficial. The programs usually combine higher standards for both students and schools. Thirty-six states publish annual reviews of school performance.
Some districts also offer pay bonuses to staff at high-performing schools.
The standards vary enormously from state to state. Ms. Vranek said. In Virginia, a scant 7 percent of schools achieved an overall 70 percent passing score based on standardized measurements. They face a loss of accreditation if they fail to reach that standard by 2006. Kentucky, a leader in standard setting, has 10 years' experience and yet still is far from reaching its goals.