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English Language Development ll students hold up their sentences for teacher Diane Shamai at Oak...
When the state identified California's worst performing schools, it promised tough reforms that included getting rid of the principal and shutting down the campus.

Schools were told they "must" decide between four "intervention models." But, now, a new, fifth option is emerging: Ignoring the sanctions altogether.

The governor and other state officials have insisted schools that made the list because of poor performance on standardized tests are "required" to implement one of the models beginning next school year "to dramatically improve student achievement."

But the requirements have no teeth, state education officials concede. The federal School Improvement Grant program -- under which the identified schools can apply for grant money to fix their problems -- is voluntary, and state laws requiring the changes do not specify a deadline, said Hilary McLean, spokeswoman for the state Department of Education. This means schools could blow off the legislation indefinitely and keep doing what they want, as long as they don't mind giving up $50,000 to $2 million a year in funding.

"At this point in time," McLean said, "there is not an enforcement mechanism other than public opinion."

Schools on the list are being asked to choose between closing; restructuring by replacing the principal, increasing