ABSTRACT
School districts, particularly larger urban districts, are often the site of multiple or blended administrative accountability systems, reflecting requirements from federal and state policymakers while also responding to local interests as well as learning that takes place through implementation. A review of accountability in ten large school districts provides examples of all four accountability types. Included also are examples outside these districts. Both traditional and reform approaches to administrative accountability are present in the ten districts, as well as other initiatives to expand accountability, such as school district consortia in several states. Market accountability is evident through various choice policies, with public magnet and charter schools popular in a number of districts. Political accountability comes through elected school boards and mayoral control in some cities. Examples of nascent professional accountability are present as well, through such programs as Peer Assistance and Review and Teacher-Powered Schools.
