The new law replaces the No Child Left Behind Act, which was signed into law by President George W. Bush in 2001.
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The new law also ends federal mandates related to teacher evaluations.
Rep. John Kline, R-Minn., who chairs the House’s education panel, said under the new approach, American classrooms will no longer be “micromanaged” by the Education Department in Washington.
“In South Dakota we expect that we’re going to care about each child…we hope to continue to do that whatever the federal legislation happens to be”, Danielsen said. “And we’ve made sure that are standards and that are procedures and process for our kids is definitely set up to the minimum standards”.
Teacher unions and school administrators have also been on board with the changes.
Then states will have to decide what to do about those schools with low test scores, achievement gaps between groups of students and situations in which fewer than two-thirds of students are graduating on time.
One thing that they’re hopeful about is the potential to streamline teacher certification. It will provide children with more access to high-quality preschools, which will provide them with a strong start in their education. The new law signed will shift a lot of decision-making power for education policy back to the states.
What is heartening to Rivera is how the federal sentiment dovetails with Gov. Tom Wolf’s education agenda and desire to ensure students graduate career and college ready.
While S.1177 requires states to adopt academic standards for math, reading, science, and other subjects the state chooses, the legislation restores state control over setting these standards. The new act “Every Student Succeeds” doesn’t go in to effect until the 2017- 18 school year.
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“We’re really saying to the creative genius of teachers and administrators, working with parents and students: Now show us a better way than No Child Left Behind”. Overall, it brings us closer to letting states, local school districts, and educators like me focus on students and their success. It’s a substantial education overhaul, and at the signing ceremony, Obama called the fact that Republicans and Democrats agreed on a new plan – and actually worked together to get something done – a “Christmas miracle”.
