As high school graduation season wraps up around the country, the class of 2015 has one unique characteristic you might not be aware of. This year’s graduates are the first class in the nation to complete all 13 years of schooling under the law known as “No Child Left Behind” (NCLB). These students, and their teachers, probably have a lot to say about the impact of this law on public education. Many education stakeholders agree the law is deeply flawed and desperately needs to be updated.
The Elementary and Secondary Education Act (known as No Child Left Behind) actually expired at midnight nearly eight years ago on September 30th, 2007. Congress often gives laws expiration dates in order to periodically review and update legislation. However, with NCLB, there has been no updates or revisions. It exists as an expired law that continues to dictate education policy years after it should have been overhauled.
This year, for the first time since its expiration, significant progress was made toward a bi-partisan redo of this law. In an uncharacteristically cooperative spirit, leaders from both sides of the aisle worked together to fashion a bill that greatly reduces the burden put on students and teachers. However, just as the finish line was in sight, Congress stalled.
Our kids deserve better. Congress must act to revise out of date education policy and pass an Elementary and Secondary Education Act that truly gives every student an opportunity for success. Due to pressure from stakeholders, the bill is finally scheduled for a floor debate on July 7th. Click here to contact Senator Rubio and Senator Nelson today and tell them to make our students a priority and work to reauthorize ESEA.
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