The mysteries of API school scores

Testing, testing. The API, or Academic Performance Index, is a term used when discussing the quality of schools. Here, thanks to Great Schools, are some things to know about what the API is -- and is not.

First, it is not a test. It is a measure of performance. The state calculates the API, which ranges from 200 to 1,000, based on a variety of tests, including the California Standards Tests and the California Achievement Test. It can be used to track a school's progress over time and where it stands compared with the state goal of 800.

Great Schools cautions parents not to judge a school based solely on its API. Read more.

-- Mary MacVean

-- Photo by Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times

Comments

[Brian]

Thanks for that last comment there. My school's testing period was this week, I didn't have to take it though (class of '08! woot woot). Four hours/day it total brain drainage! And it is true, don't pass judgement on a school based on some test scores, expierience for yourself.