Describes the steps that a school district should follow in the first stages of implementing a minimum competency testing program: preparatory activities, defining the project, identifying existing tests, evaluating tests, developing a local test, and sharing knowledge. (Author)

Issues associated with minimum competency testing are discussed: the national, state, and local context for MCT program development; MCT's potential impact; the use and development of MCT programs; and reactions to the testing programs. Presently, the federal role is described as limited to providing information, research support, and technical…