For instance, knowing that the SAT will independently validate the performance capabilities of their students, the teachers and administrators adhere to acceptble standards nationwide.
Absent the SAT, there'd be no guarantee this would happen ~
No, not really. Murray suggests replacing SAT with SAT II and AP (subject achievement) tests results. That provides a “national” check on grades and academic quality. His argument is one of efficiency, and not one suggesting we do away with objective performance measures.