What is the API?

The API is a single number, ranging from a low of 200 to a high of 1000, which reflects a school’s, an LEA’s, or a subgroup’s performance level, based on the results of statewide testing. Its purpose is to measure the academic performance and growth of schools. The API was established by the PSAA, a landmark state law passed in 1999 that created a new academic accountability system for K-12 public education in California. The API is calculated by converting a student’s performance on statewide assessments across multiple content areas into points on the API scale. These points are then averaged across all students and all tests. The result is the API. An API is calculated for schools, LEAs, and for each numerically significant subgroup of students at a school or an LEA. The key features of the API include the following:

• The API is based on an improvement model. The API from one year is compared to the API from the prior year to measure improvement. Each school has an annual target, and all numerically significant subgroups at a school also have targets.
• The API requires subgroup accountability to address the achievement gaps that exist between traditionally higher- and lower-scoring student subgroups.

~ CDE – 2010/11 Academic Performance Index Reports

What is the AYP?

AYP is a series of annual academic performance goals established for each school, LEA, and the state as a whole. Schools, LEAs, and the state are determined to have met AYP if they meet or exceed each year’s goals (AYP targets and criteria). ~ CDE – 2010 Adequate Yearly Progress Report Information Guide

AYP as it relates to PI

PI is a formal designation for Title I-funded schools and LEAs. A Title I school or LEA is identified for PI if it does not meet AYP criteria for two consecutive years in specific areas. If a school or an LEA is designated PI, it must provide certain types of required services and/or interventions during each year it is identified as PI. A school or an LEA is eligible to exit PI if it makes AYP for two consecutive years.~ CDE – 2010 Adequate Yearly Progress Report Information Guide