The state of Rhode Island has recently embarked in a new state accountability system for public elementary and secondary education. An overview of the system is provided, coupled with an understanding of accountability systems as technologies of social control. The ramifications of such technologies are discussed along with the costs, benefits, uncertainties, and necessary tensions associated with such systems. The best accountability systems are those that exhibit reflective response to changing contexts and information associated with educational reform. The hardest part is to maintain an appropriate level of tension between state control and direction, and local autonomy and ownership. Rhode Island is attempting to realize this goal. (Contains 38 references.) (SLD)