New Page 1

“FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS”

No Child Left Behind

I have heard about a new law called “No Child Left Behind”; what is this? In January of 2002 the federal government passed this new law. It is considered one of the most far-reaching laws ever passed related to education in America. It defines the federal role in education and is designed to close the achievement difference between students. States, school districts, and individual schools are required to comply with the provisions of this law – or lose the federal funds they receive for education.

What is the major purpose of this law? The major goals include increasing accountability for states, school districts, and schools; greater choice for parents and students; more flexibility in using federal education dollars; and a stronger emphasis on reading, especially for our youngest children.

What are the major requirements? There are a number of areas that are covered. The major ones are:

Testing: Annual tests are required for every child in grades three through twelve.
Accountability: Schools that fail to have students achieve the expected standards, after so many years, may be taken over. This can result in having new personnel assigned and allowing students to transfer to other schools.
Achievement: All students will be expected to achieve at a specific level set by the State. Economically disadvantaged, minorities, foreign language, and special education students all have to meet the expectations.
Teacher Qualifications: All teachers are to meet the qualifications to teach in their subject areas.
Report Cards: Requires schools to develop a report card showing the schools’ test scores compared to other schools.
Title I: Requires using these funds for the lowest income and poorest performing students.
Student Transfers: Permits transfers of students in low performing schools to have the following paid for--transportation to other schools, providing of additional educational services, and permits using private providers of education.

What is the State of West Virginia doing right now? The State is creating standards for what a child should know and learn for all grades. These will be the items tested beginning in 2003-2004 and must cover grades 3-5, grades 6-9, and grades 10-12 in all schools. New Content Standards for core subject areas of Reading, Math, Science, and Social Studies are under development. Extensive training is taking place throughout the State.

Where can I find out more? Right now it is still new for everyone. There are a number of excellent websites that can be found by simply searching for “No Child Left Behind”. As the State of West Virginia, and in turn Hardy County, finalizes information it will certainly be made available.

“FAQ” is a monthly column designed to address questions the public may have regarding the operations of Hardy County Schools. If you have a question or a topic that you would like addressed, please contact Jeanette Keller at Hardy County Board of Education Office at 530-2348, Extension 236.

FAQ.NCLB