Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA)

Definition

The Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) is a U.S. law enacted in 2015 that replaced the No Child Left Behind Act, aimed at ensuring all students receive a high-quality education. ESSA gives states more control over education policy while emphasizing accountability for student achievement, particularly in underserved communities, including Native American students and those attending Bureau of Indian Education schools.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. ESSA allows states to create their own accountability systems, tailored to their specific needs and populations, which includes measures for student progress and school performance.
2. The law emphasizes the importance of addressing educational disparities faced by marginalized groups, including Native American students, by requiring targeted support and interventions.
3. ESSA shifts away from strict federal oversight, giving more power to states to determine how they assess and improve educational outcomes.
4. Under ESSA, schools are required to report on various indicators of student success, such as graduation rates and English language proficiency.
5. The law promotes the inclusion of culturally relevant materials and practices in education, supporting the unique needs of Native American students and their communities.

Review Questions

• How does the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) differ from its predecessor in terms of state control over education?
  • The Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) significantly differs from the No Child Left Behind Act by granting states greater autonomy in shaping their education policies. Unlike NCLB's stringent federal mandates and uniform standards, ESSA allows states to design their own accountability systems tailored to local needs. This shift enables states to focus on addressing specific challenges faced by their student populations, including those within the Bureau of Indian Education.
• What are some key provisions of ESSA that specifically aim to support Native American students and improve educational outcomes in Bureau of Indian Education schools?
  • ESSA includes provisions that specifically target educational equity for Native American students by emphasizing culturally relevant education and requiring states to address the unique challenges faced by these communities. The law mandates that states implement strategies to support schools serving Native American populations, including tailored interventions for underperforming schools. Additionally, it requires the inclusion of culturally responsive materials in curricula to enhance engagement and academic success among Native American students.
• Evaluate the potential long-term impacts of the Every Student Succeeds Act on educational equity for Native American students.
  • The Every Student Succeeds Act has the potential for significant long-term impacts on educational equity for Native American students by shifting focus towards localized accountability and tailored educational strategies. By allowing states more control, there is an opportunity for improved responsiveness to the unique cultural and academic needs of Native American communities. If effectively implemented, ESSA can lead to better resource allocation, more relevant curricula, and increased support systems that ultimately enhance educational outcomes for these students. This could contribute to a more equitable education system that acknowledges and respects cultural diversity.

Related terms

No Child Left Behind Act: A federal law enacted in 2001 aimed at improving student achievement and closing educational gaps, but faced criticism for its testing requirements and one-size-fits-all approach.

Bureau of Indian Education: A federal agency that manages and funds schools primarily serving Native American students, aiming to improve educational outcomes and cultural relevance in the curriculum.

Accountability: A key principle of ESSA that holds schools and districts responsible for student performance, requiring them to demonstrate progress through various metrics.