South Carolina is developing and implementing assessment processes for two programs aimed at improving the quality of education in the state. One program involves recognizing outstanding progress by individual meritorious schools. The other program provides for state intervention in districts that fail to meet educational quality standards. Both programs feature two-step assessment procedures that first evaluate multiple indicators of educational outcomes and then follow up with on-site evaluations of educational processes and practices. This paper outlines the major features of both programs, noting the criteria and standards to be met and the actions to be taken if schools meet or districts fail to meet their respective standards. (PGD)