What is ESSA?

To most parents, the k-12 school system is just too complicated. We understand and were here to help!

So…What is ESSA?

ESSA, formally know as The Every Student Succeeds Act, was passed in December of 2015 to replace the No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB). This change shifted educational authority from the federal government, and gave it back to the states. This change gives states the final say on issues of state standards, teacher and student equality and fixing failing schools. With more flexibility, each state is able to craft its own educational standards according to its needs, as long as they are still getting students ready for college.

The new U.S. Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos, has issued the following statement regarding ESSA and the changes of the state plan template.

“The updated state template will ensure states are able to better serve students with the freedom and flexibility they deserve, and which Congress requires. My philosophy is simple: I trust parents, I trust teachers, and I trust local school leaders to do what’s right for the children they serve. ESSA was passed with broad bipartisan support to move power away from Washington, D.C., and into the hands of those who are closest to serving our nation’s students.” She goes on to say, “States, along with local educators and parents, are on the frontlines of ensuring every child has access to a quality education. The plans each state develops under the streamlined ESSA template will promote innovation, flexibility and accountability to ensure every child has a chance to learn and succeed.”