NCLB

The No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 (NCLB) reauthorized the Elementary and Secondary Act of 1965. This new law contains sweeping changes in how we educate children and how the federal government supports elementary and secondary education. Our Nation has embarked on a new era. This historic education reform gives states and school systems unprecedented flexibility in how their education dollars are spent. In return, schools/systems are responsible for setting standards for student achievement and holding students and educators accountable for results. More options are also provided for parents that their children can get the best possible education.

Title II-A

The Title II-A, Improving Teacher Quality State Grants Program, is intended to increase student achievement by increasing teacher and principal quality through recruitment, hiring, and retention strategies. Because research shows that teacher quality is correlated with student academic achievement, all activities supported with Title II-A funds must be based on scientifically based research that shows how interventions are expected to improve student achievement.

"Highly Qualified" Teachers

NCLB requires each state to develop a plan to ensure that all teachers are "highly qualified" no later than the end of the 2005-2006 school year. The plan must establish annual, measurable objectives for each school/school system to ensure that they are on track to meet the requirement. In general, a "highly qualified teacher" is a teacher with full certification, a bachelor's degree, and demonstrated competence in subject knowledge and teaching skills.

States must use Title II-A funds to ensure that all teachers are "highly qualified." Beginning in 2002-2003 school year, the state must report on the performance measures that indicate the percentage of teachers who are qualified and the percentage of teachers who are participating in high-quality professional development in order to become highly qualified. The ultimate goal of the program is to increase students' academic performance.

Paraprofessionals

Title II-A funds may also be used to ensure that all current paraprofessionals supported with Title I, Part A funds (other than translators and parent-involvement liaisons) have, by January 2006, completed at least two years of study at an institution of higher education, obtained an associate's (or higher) a degree, or met a rigorous standard of quality and can demonstrate academic skills and knowledge.

You are invited to browse this Web site for additional information and assistance in meeting the requirements for NCLB.