The Indiana State Assessment System, new for the 1995-96 school year, will emphasize student-constructed answers in both language arts and mathematics in grades 3, 4, 8, 10, and 12. Optional classroom performance assessments will be available for grades 2, 5, 6, 7, 9, and 11. Local diagnostic tests will be available at the same grades as the grades for the mandated assessments, and classroom portfolios will be required at all grades. The assessment system is a carefully planned set of assessments that work together to provide the information needed for understanding outcomes, planning instruction, and helping learners to become assessors of their own progress. Professional development will be needed to assure the assessment program's success. Whatever resources the state provides, Indiana school districts must work to expand those resources to assure that teachers gain the skills and understandings they need to build the program's success. (RS)