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August 29, 2007

Using the No Child Left Behind Act

Most parents know that the No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB) is responsible for the mandated standardized testing their children must take every few years at their school. While the act is supposed to ensure that schools are responsible for quality education, many families and students feel the act has been a negative addition to the school experience.

But there are some less known features of the NCLB that families can use to improve their child’s education.

You can use the NCLB to fight for school reform.
Schools must form Parent Involvement Plans when they: (a) receive Title I funds; or (b) do not make “adequate yearly progress” (AYP). All school districts must form a budget for parent involvement. Parents must receive written notice meaningful and regular opportunities for getting involved in developing and reviewing the budgets and plans. The budget can pay for transportation and child care to help parents be involved. All of these things must improve student academic achievement. Ask your local schools for copies of their parent involvement budget and plans. Ask to participate in developing these plans.

You may  be able to use the NCLB to transfer your child to a better public school.
School districts must allow parents to transfer their children out of schools that do not make "adequate yearly progress" (AYP), or if the child is a victim of violence at the school.

Internet locations for the official lists of PA public schools with problems:

• School Improvement, Corrective Action, or Restructuring List, that is "Schools Not Making Academic Progress" Search for your school at top of the page.
• "Persistently Dangerous List" that is schools with high levels of violence. There is also a link to a Parent’s Brochure on the page.