(June 7, 2007)--An Education Department survey says there are vast differences state-to-state when it comes to judging a child's progress in school.

For example, a reading score that is "proficient" in Mississippi can be considered failing in Massachusetts.

The study also suggests most state standards fall below federal standards when it comes to reading and math comprehension.

The study, which is the first-ever federal comparison of state educational standards, is likely to touch off more debate over No Child Left Behind.

The five-year-old law uses state exams to judge if schools are making the grade.

The law is up for renewal this year.

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