The Functional Academic Skills Tests (FAST) was developed to measure the basic skills of mathematics, reading, and writing in teachers employed by the Houston, Texas, Independent School District. The three content domains were drawn from the Pre-Professional Skills Tests (PPST). These sets of skills, or proficiencies, were amplified by supporting behavioral objectives, which determined specific test content. Item specifications consisting of content limits, distractor limits, and format statements stipulated how the items were to be written. A variety of trained personnel participated in writing and reviewing the items. The item pool was field-tested and equated with items on the PPST. Both tests were administered to 400 people. Based on the item statistics obtained, 80 percent of the tested items were available for the first test administration. In addition, cutting scores were developed which were equated with PPST passing scores. The Rasch model was used to construct the FAST forms and to build the item bank. FAST results are sent to the examinee. Employee remediation programs are available both before and after testing. (Appendices include a sample score report and detailed item specifications for mathematics, reading, and writing proficiencies; supporting objectives; and content limits.) (GDC)