These combined proceedings summarize presentations of two conference programs designed to address state-mandated student achievement issues. Dr. Terrel Bell delivered the keynote speech at a teleconference focusing on a broad perspective of competency testing. He discussed testing problems, as well as positive aspects such as comparison, diagnosis and improvement, and public support. A second program presented in the format of a conventional all-day conference, addressed educational, political, philosophical, and psychometric implications of state-mandated assessment programs. Beverly L. Anderson discussed the use of testing for school improvement. David S. Lane, Jr. described the implications of state-level testing on the classroom system. David Yellin also discussed educational implications, such as increased emphasis on basic skills testing which does not put enough emphasis on other educational challenges. Joseph R. Weaver discussed political and financial implications, such as the funding of effective programs. William E. Camp discussed the costs of testing in Oklahoma and other states. Philosphical concerns, such as problems for minority or special students, were raised by Daniel Selakovich. Kay Sather Bull also discussed philosophical implications, such as deciding what should be taught. Janie L. Hall listed a number of practical reservations about minimum competency testing. Psychometric concerns such as scoring, test length, reliability, validity, and standards were reviewed by Dianna Newman. Thomas H. Fisher described Florida's testing experience, and Carolyn W. Smith described Oklahoma's program. (GDC)