Public law 107-110 known as No Child Left Behind, states that the purpose is to ensure that all children have a fair, equal and meaningful opportunity to obtain a high-quality education. The theory behind this is that children must achieve minimal proficiency and a challenging state academy.
Nationally, there is a significant gap between the achievement test scores of children from low-income families, racial differences, children with disabilities, and “normal” children.
It requires annual proficiency tests, a research-based reading program, highly qualified teachers, supplemental education services, and public options, as well as parental involvement.
The idea behind this is that by the time a child is in 3rd grade, everyone will be able to read at grade level. All children are assessed at grade level regardless of ability. So basically, if you have a child who is in the sixth grade but is reading at a second grade reading level, there is no way the child can pass a test that is at a sixth grade level. Not only are they being assessed by the state on their grade level, but their class work has to be, too. These kids are being groomed to fail. This is where this law makes no sense and children are falling behind. Additionally, overall scores dictate how much Title One money each school receives.
The other part of the law states that if a Title One school does not make adequate yearly progress (AYP) two years in a row, it can transfer your child to another school in the district that does meet the requirements. If the school does not make AYP for three years, the school must provide supplemental education services, supplemental education services provided, including tutoring, after-school programs, and summer programs. These services are free to parents; however, the problem is that when it comes to children with special needs who are years behind their grade level, no amount of supplemental services will bring them to grade level. Not to mention, most children with special needs are tired, overwhelmed, and overstimulated at the end of the day. It is not possible for them to hold additional material. The idea behind this looks good on paper, but it just doesn’t work. For some kids, this method may work, but for kids who are significantly behind they have no way to pass state tests or even class.
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