Florida state legislation has mandated the evaluation of its compensatory education programs. The Florida Accountability Act of 1976 called for minimum basic skills testing in grades 3, 5, 8, and 11 (subsequently amended to grade 10). In 1977, the Florida Compensatory Education Act mandated remedial programs for students performing below the appropriate achievement level for their age. Furthermore, only the most effective and cost-effective programs--as indicated by pre- and post-test results of the State Student Achievement Test--should be continued. The Florida Department of Education has had difficulty in fulfilling these mandates because of the differences in each district's programs, testing procedures, and student performance requirements. In fact, five studies conducted between 1978 and 1982 have found that it was not possible to comply with these regulations as written. One study suggested three feasible evaluation models; annual statewide trend analysis; state monitoring of district evaluation designs; and criterion referenced testing. The Department of Education's approach now involves a more stringent program approval process, more data analyses, specifications for test items, and legislative amendments. The Compensatory Education Act of 1977 and the Board of Education Rule about qualifying for funding under this Act are appended. (GDC)