What does AYP stand for in educational standards?

AYP stands for Adequate Yearly Progress, which is a term used primarily under the No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB) in the United States. This standard was put in place to measure the yearly progress of schools in improving student achievement. Under AYP, schools and districts are evaluated based on the performance of their students, particularly in reading and mathematics, with specific targets set to ensure continuous improvement.

The concept of AYP is important as it holds schools accountable for the performance of their students, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds. If a school does not meet the AYP targets, it may face consequences that require interventions, including development plans and even restructuring. This framework aims to close achievement gaps among different student groups and ensure all students receive a quality education.

The other options refer to terms that are either incorrect or not recognized in the context of educational standards, clarifying why Adequate Yearly Progress is the accurate answer.