A comprehensive overview of the current state of student assessment and a glimpse of the extent of student assessment in New York State (NYS), throughout the nation, and in foreign countries are provided. Background on existing testing programs in NYS and the assessment components of "A New Compact for Learning," a set of proposals from the NYS Board of Regents for educational improvement, are included. Trends are identified, and significant reports or studies are reviewed. Test reform activists have initiated a campaign to limit the mass testing of young children in NYS, but in general, NYS's testing policies/practices agree with desirable testing practices. The development of large-scale performance-based assessment is now underway throughout the nation. Although there are some concerns that the new assessment is moving too fast, proponents argue that to determine its worth, performance-based testing must be initiated on a large scale. Proposals of the "New Compact for Learning" with regard to student portfolios and review of testing show a willingness to explore further change. A chart lists alternative assessment practices for each state. Seven appendices provide: descriptions and scheduling of NYS assessment programs; an outline of norm-referenced and criterion-referenced measurement; a table outlining questions used in the NYS Testing Program; lists of advocates for replacing standardized tests with alternative testing practices and advocates for a ban on standardized testing of young children; an outline of data sources for the 50-state testing comparison chart; and a list of districts taking part in the Urban District Leadership Consortium Project. A 74-item bibliography and additional information sources is included. (SLD)