“…The variables for the first level (students) are: sociodemographic characteristics, cultural and social capital, motivation and self-esteem, studying habits and school records (Albernaz et al, 2002; Jesus and Laros, 2004; Menezes-Filho, 2007; Brasil, Ministério da Educação, 2008; Riani and Rios-Neto, 2008; Castro, 2009; Couri, 2010). For the second level (classes), the following teacher variables were selected: sociodemographic characteristics, level of education and expectations, professional experience, pedagogical practices, and working conditions (Mello, 1994; Ferrão and Fernandes, 2001; Albernaz et al, 2002; Soares and Alves, 2003; Menezes-Filho, 2007; Riani and Rios-Neto, 2008; Castro, 2009; Felicio, 2010; Palermo, 2011). Finally, the third level (school characteristics) was comprised of the sociodemographic characteristics of the principals, level of education and expectations, professional experience, leadership, working conditions of staff, collaborative work, academic and disciplinary practices, pedagogical resources and school facilities and equipment (Jesus and Laros, 2004; Soares, 2004, 2007; Andrade and Laros, 2007; Biondi and Freitas, 2007; Menezes-Filho, 2007; Riani and Rios-Neto, 2008; Castro, 2009; Castelar et al, 2012; Passador et al, 2012; Lamas et al, 2013).…”