In order to ensure the fairness, reliability, and validity of this form of assessment, schools are required to pilot their graduation portfolio review process before using it for the class of 2008. This will help identify flaws in the rubrics, protocols, or processes that have been established, and provide an opportunity for reflection and revision before the process is used to evaluate high stakes performances.

It is inevitable that discrepancies in the review process will be uncovered, that the analytic review rubric will have to be revised, or that students do not receive the guidance or support needed to complete the review process. After the pilot, it is important to review the entire process and get feedback from all key personnel and students. Be sure to review the process for fairness and equity as well as adherence to the minimum state requirements.

Schools are required to pilot their review process so that the first time graduation portfolios count toward a student's graduation in a fair and equitable manner.