The Basic Skills Testing program in Louisiana was implemented due to a legislative mandate for minimum competency testing. The program began in grade two, adding a grade each year through grade twelve. Basic Skills Tests are being phased in to replace State Assessment. State Assessment will continue in the areas of science, social studies, and other nonbasic skills areas. The Education Department developed statements of minimum standards in reading, mathematics, and writing in grades kindergarten through twelve. Curriculum guides were developed in all required subjects. A pupil progression plan was developed to assure mastery of minimum skills before promotion. The teacher preparation programs were coordinated on a statewide basis. The compensatory/remedial education law required the state to provide remediation for students who did not reach mastery on minimum standards. Parental awareness and involvement in the basic skills program has been encouraged by the distribution of a Calendar of Skills. Louisiana has implemented procedures to assure higher quality education in its public schools. There is an effort to prevent minimum standards from becoming maximum goals. (DWH)