Schools compete against themselves, not other schools. Schools scoring above goals get financial rewards. Those scoring below are placed on improvement plans. In worst cases, superintendents, principals and teachers can be fired. Students must explain answers in writing rather than guess.
Students maintain a written portfolio of tests to measure the progress of the student and school.
Proficiency tests in fourth, eighth and 11th grade. Teachers receive additional money and time for training. Preschool programs for disadvantaged youths were expanded to improve chance of success in elementary school. 455 family resource centers serve 752 schools to help at-risk children and families get access to social and health services. The state ensures roughly equivalent funding from district to district by equalizing local property tax revenues with state dollars.