The Educational Accountability System was signed into law as part of Prop 98 in 1988. It required each school to file an annual School Accountability Report Card (SARCs), which would allow parents, the Department of Education, and taxpayers to compare an annual snapshot of schools.

SARCs serve as valuable tools for parents, educators, and communities to assess the overall performance and effectiveness of a school. These comprehensive reports provide transparent and easily accessible information about a school's academic achievement, student demographics, teacher qualifications, and various other factors that contribute to its overall quality. SARCs not only help stakeholders make informed decisions but also promote accountability and foster a collaborative approach to improving educational outcomes. By examining the data and insights presented in SARCs, individuals can gain a deeper understanding of a school's strengths, areas for improvement, and its commitment to providing a high-quality education for all students.