Parent and Guardian Guide to California's Accountability Progress Reporting System California's integrated accountability system reports both the state Academic Performance Index (API), and the federal Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) and Program Improvement (PI).

Academic Performance Index  (API) The cornerstone of California's Public Schools Accountability Act of 1999; measures the academic performance and growth of schools on a variety of academic measures. Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP)    A statewide accountability system mandated by the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 which requires each state to ensure that all schools and districts make Adequate Yearly Progress. Program Improvement (PI) All Title I funded schools and local educational agencies (LEAs) that do not make Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) are identified for Program Improvement (PI) under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA). Title III Accountability A statewide accountability system as required by Title III and the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 which reports on English proficiency achievement objectives for English learners.

If you are eligible, you can earn a Certificate of Proficiency by passing the California High School Proficiency Examination(CHSPE). The examination assesses your proficiency in the basic reading, writing, and mathematics skills taught in public schools. If you pass the examination, the California State Board of Education will award you a Certificate of Proficiency, which by state law is equivalent to a high school diploma (although not equivalent to completing all coursework required for regular graduation from high school).

Dropping out of school after registering for the CHSPE or while awaiting results is unlawful for those under 18 years old. It may also result in failing grades for courses in which you are enrolled.

Eligibility to Take the CHSPE
You may take the CHSPE only if, on the test date, you:
- are at least 16 years old, or
- have been enrolled in the tenth grade for one academic year or longer, or
- will complete one academic year of enrollment in the tenth grade at the end of the semester during which the next regular administration will be conducted.

IMPORTANT EDUCATION LINKS California Department of Education U.S. Department of Education Title I - No Child Left Behind Act - California Contacts Coordinated Compliance Review - Accountability Division Immediate Intervention/High Priority Schools Program