The U.S. Department of Education provides states with an opportunity to avoid requirements from the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 (NCLB) so long as they present plans to improve student achievement. Taking certain measures, such as adopting the Common Core State Standards (CCSS), has helped states like Florida, Massachusetts and Utah receive NCLB waivers.
In a recent press release, the Department announced that Alabama is the latest state to receive a waiver from NCLB. This brings the total number of states receiving relief from the Act to 38, as well as the District of Columbia.
"Thirty-eight states and the District of Columbia can't wait any longer for education reform," said Arne Duncan, U.S. secretary of education. "A strong, bipartisan reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act remains the best path forward in education reform, but as these states have demonstrated, our kids can't wait any longer for Congress to act."
To receive a waiver, states need to provide evidence they are committed to preparing K-12 students for college and the workforce. By adopting the CCSS November 18, 2010, Alabama proved just how committed it is to improving student achievement.
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