On January 8, 2002 , President Bush signed into law the “No Child Left Behind Act” (NCLB). This educational law was designed to improve student achievement and change the culture of America ’s schools. It is important for parents to find out about the law and where they can go to find the information they need to make the best choices and decisions for their children’s education. The No Child Left Behind Act includes the following goals for ALL children:
1. Proficiency in reading and math by the 2013-2014 school year.
2. English proficiency for "limited English proficient" students.
3. Qualified teachers in every classroom by 2005-2006.
4. Safe and drug free learning environments.
5. High school graduation for ALL students
The No Child Left Behind Act recognizes and expands the vital role parents play in the education of their children. In fact, parents are mentioned over 240 times in the law! No Child Left Behind identifies specific roles for parents at school, at home, and in decision making for their children.
At school parents are encouraged to communicate with teachers, participate in policy-making and school improvement efforts, and volunteer at school as much as possible.
At home the role of parents is most critical. Research shows that what parents do at home is the biggest factor in how well their children do at school. Whether getting their children to school on time, talking with their children about school, providing opportunities to read or be read to, supporting completion of their homework, or encouraging learning at home and in the community, all parents have great impact on their children’s success at school.
Parents whose children attend schools that have been identified “in need of improvement” may have an additional role in their children’s education.
These parents may have the opportunity to make decisions about the school their children attend, i.e. school choice, and, in some cases, may request supplemental education services for their children.
For additional information and resources check out the No Child Left Behind Act websites at the United States and South Dakota Department of Education.
Check out SD Parent Resource Network’s brochures for parents on the following No Child Left Behind Topics:
• A Parent’s Guide to the No Child Left Behind Act
• A Parent’s Guide to Content standards
• A Parent’s Guide to School Choice
• A Parent’s Guide to Supplemental Educational Services
