Schenectady, NY.Yates Arts-in-Education Magnet School (urban elementary school) .Grade 4 .Boy (9, African-American) takes practice test for upcoming statewide standardized exam in math, one of three Elementary Level State Assessments they will take in fourth grade. Scores are critical for New York State schools, as results of State Assessments are used to prepare report cards on the effectiveness of individual schools and of school districts. A "failing" school can be put on probation and, if it does not improve, have its state aid taken away. Exams are graded 1 through 4; 1 is a failing grade, 2 indicates the student is "at risk ". Unfunded mandate requires schools to provide AIS (Academic Intervention Services) to "at-risk" students..©Ellen B. Senisi