Currently, most states are either working on or have adopted statewide standards, and many states have plans to link their standards to rigorous new assessments and accountability measures. Report cards showing how well districts are doing, takeover provisions for low-performing schools, and requirements that students pass state tests in order to graduate are options under consideration in many states, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures. Legislative leaders also point to grassroots support for more accountability on the part of schools. Iowa performance remains high. They're not quite willing to accept just a general article saying Iowa ranks in the top five in the country.
Voters are more demanding now.
They're used to higher standards in everything and they want clear evidence of how schools are performing. Christopher Rants, a Republican representative from Sioux City, agrees. If we want the public to invest in public education, we have to demonstrate to them that they are getting their money's worth. We want schools to be able to share information with the public, so parents and the community feel that the school district is accountable to them. Local Control at Stake Legislators are quick to note that the stakes are high in maintaining Iowa's prized local control.