Background

The No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 became law January 8, 2002. The Act substantially revised the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA). Its goal is to reduce the achievement gap between disadvantaged students and their peers. It is based on four basic principles: 1) stronger accountability for results; 2) expanded state and local flexibility and reduced "red tape;" 3) expanded choices for parents; and 4) focusing resources on proven educational methods, particularly in reading instruction.

These principles are aimed to produce fundamental reforms in classrooms throughout America. The new Act provides officials and educators at the school, district, and state level flexibility to plan and implement school programs that will help close the achievement gap between disadvantaged and minority students and their peers. At the same time, the reauthorized Act holds school officials accountable – to parents, students, and the public – for achieving results.