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Executive Summary
Introduction
The ABCs of Public Education
Intended Effects of the ABCs
Unintended Effects
Problems with the Formula
The State's Accountability
Recommendations
Appendix
Notes

Written by MaryBe McMillan
A report from the Common Sense Foundation, June 1999

State policymakers credit NC's school reform program, the ABCs of Public Education, with raising test scores and improving the quality of public education in the state. Policymakers don't tell the public, however, about the negative impacts of the high stakes ABCs program. This report examines the effects of the ABCs program - both intended and unintended - on teachers, students, and instruction generally.