Based on the key premise that all students can learn, NCLB is intended to address the academic achievement gaps that exist between poor and minority students and their peers through a standards-based reform approach. Standards-based reform includes three major theoretical components. First, high standards will motivate students to improve their performance if they are challenged by rigorous academic courses. Second, accurate assessments will be used to measure improvement and make important decisions about students. Third, this reform will lead to school system accountability by providing parents, policy-makers, and advocates information about the performance of their local schools. Based on these elements, NCLB presents an opportunity to narrow the persistent gaps between Latino and English language learner students and their peers.
Related Resources
- No Child Left Behind Act: Summary of Selected Provisions (Fact Sheet)
- NCLR's Position on the No Child Left Behind Act and English Language Learners
- No Child Left Behind Act (PowerPoint Presentation)
- The No Child Left Behind Act: Implications for Local Educators and Advocates for Latino Students, Families, and Communities (Issue Brief)
NCLR Also Recommends:
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The ABCs of "AYP": Raising Achievement for All Students (Backgrounder by Education Trust)
