The following is a summary of the most often asked questions concerning the Maryland State High School Assessment initiative. Readers should be careful to remember that this new initiative is definitely a "work in progress." The Maryland State Department of Education, State Legislature, and other state and local agencies are still finalizing the details of test design and requirements. However, the following synthesizes the most current information concerning this important program:

	In brief, what should staffs, parents, community members, and students know about the new Maryland State High School Assessments?
	What are the standards upon which the Maryland State High School Assessments are based?
	How many tests are required? How are the tests tied to students' graduation?
	What kinds of questions can we expect to see on the high school assessments?
	What do we know about the learning theory underlying this assessment initiative?
	What is the Prince George's County Public Schools doing to address the Maryland State High School Assessment Program?
	What instructional strategies should be evident in classrooms preparing students for the Maryland State High School Assessments?
	How should school-based staffs address the Core Learning Goals and State High School Assessments in their School Improvement Planning process?
	How will these tests be scored?
	How can the needs of special populations be addressed in relationship to the High School Assessments?
	What should students do to prepare for the High School Assessments?
	What should parents and community members do to assist schools in promoting student achievement on these assessments?
	What kinds of professional development activities can staffs develop and participate in to address all facets of the high school assessments implementation and preparation process?