Most schools are assigned a level from 1-5, with those meeting their proficiency gap-narrowing goals in Level 1 and the lowest performing in Levels 4 and 5. A district is typically assigned a level based on the level of its lowest performing school. Placing schools and districts into levels helps districts know which schools need more support, and helps the state know which districts need the most assistance. More information is available here: http://www.doe.mass.edu/accountability/

Districts, including single school districts, are assigned a determination of need for special education technical assistance or intervention. These determinations, which are typically based on the district's accountability and assistance level, range from Meets Requirements (Level 1 districts) to Needs Substantial Intervention (Level 5 districts). The determination level, which incorporates compliance measures also, helps to identify whether the Department will require districts to take additional actions to support improved outcomes for all children, especially students with disabilities.