Federal Policy

It has been a very busy summer, and substantial education policy change is afoot. Congress has taken substantive steps toward the reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA), now known as the No Child Left Behind (NCLB) Act.

Nevertheless, President Obama is moving forward with a new "waiver" policy that would enable states to receive relief from many of the core requirements of NCLB. While reauthorization and waivers are in the works, Congress is also wrestling with budget matters, including the regular appropriations (funding) process and the high-profile and high-stakes work of the congressional "supercommittee" to reduce the federal deficit.

More progress has been made on the federal stage regarding education policy in the past several months than was envisioned six months ago. Still, much work lies ahead to translate this progress into policy. Read the Alliance's November 2011 federal education policy update or click on the links below for more information.

Alliance's Federal Recommendations	The Alliance for Excellent Education works to improve national and federal policy so that all students graduate from high school college and career ready. This section provides information about the Alliance’s federal policy recommendations.

ESEA Reauthorization	On behalf of America’s secondary school students—in particular the more than six million most at risk of academic failure—the Alliance calls on Congress to complete a reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA). These policies will build on the ideals of No Child Left Behind and help lead the nation toward the goal of “every child a college- and career-ready graduate.”

Key Legislation	The Alliance has compiled information on federal secondary school legislation, including an analysis of the legislation, press statements, and other supporting materials.

Budget and Appropriations	This section provides critical information about the federal budget and appropriations process, and focuses on news and funding levels for programs that benefit secondary schools.