NAEP assesses samples of students in grades 4, 8, and 12 in various academic subjects. Results of the assessments are reported for the nation and states in terms of the Governing Board's achievement levels -- basic, proficient, and advanced.

In 1988, Congress created the National Assessment Governing Board (NAGB) to set policy for the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP). The independent, 26-member Board is composed of state, local, and federal officials, educators, business representatives, and members of the general public.   More detail...