API (Academic Performance Index) measures each school's academic performance. The numeric index ranges from 200 to 1000. The State has set a performance target of 800 for all schools.

To develop the API, the State needed test scores as inputs. Initially, the State used the Stanford 9 test (a national norm referenced test). However, after California established content standards, the State developed its own Standards Test. The plan has been to replace the Stanford 9 test with the California Standards Test.

The chart below shows how the State has shifted the testing weights from the Stanford 9 test (national norm referenced test) to the California Standards Test. numbers:

API Component Weights Elementary/Middle Schools

API Component Weights High Schools

In 2003, there were minor modifications to API indicator weights. The most significant changes were the inclusion of the California Standards Test for Science for grades 9-11 and inclusion of California High School Exit Exam for 10th graders.

In 2004, the California Standards Test for 5th grade science was added. The 8th grade Social Science test was added. The CAT-6 is only included for grades 3 & 7. In addition, content weight and calculation methodology for aggregated student results were implemented. Here are tests used by grade level to calculate the 2004 Base API:

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Last modified: March 24, 2004

Disclaimer: This website is the sole responsibility of Mike McMahon. It does not represent any official opinions, statement of facts or positions of the Alameda Unified School District. Its sole purpose is to disseminate information to interested individuals in the Alameda community.