Implementation of the Proficiency Testing Program, adopted by the Idaho State Board of Education, is explained in the districts coordinator's manual. The tests are described as administered on a district optional basis to ninth grade students in the basic skills areas of reading, writing, spelling, and mathematics. Criterion referenced tests are based on objectives written by a task force and reviewed by educators, parents, and the general public. The reading, mathematics, and spelling tests are objective multiple choice and the test is comprised of a writing sample to be graded by trained readers. Students who fail are allowed to retake the applicable test sections at designated times. The following information is contained in the manual: description of tests; roles and responsibilities; district coordinator's checklist; general test administration information; students to be tested; test schedules; absences or invalidations; make-up testing; test procedures; materials needed for testing; returning materials for scoring; scoring; test results; school record-keeping; test security; and test follow-up. The basic proficiencies and skills to be tested are appended. (MH)