This paper examines whether the Title I/Chapter 1 tradition of leading the way in educational evaluation will continue or whether Chapter 1 will change its role by delegating decision-making authority over evaluation methodology to state and local school systems. Whatever direction Chapter 1 takes, states, school systems, and schools must be held accountable for their activities. Conclusions are as follows: (1) Chapter 1 must define the purpose of its assessment; (2) Chapter 1 must select a methodology and instrumentation to answer that question; (3) more than one methodology and instrument may be needed to answer more than one question; (4) Chapter 1 must continue to mandate accountability and fund it; and (5) Chapter 1 must continue to develop and test evaluation methodology. Seven recommendations are offered regarding the design and implementation of accountability-focused evaluation. One figure is included. (LMI)