It requires annual testing, with states free to develop testing and accountability systems. However, the incoming and very able secretary of education, Rod Paige, must work to ensure some uniformity in evaluation. Mr. Bush is proposing that failing schools be identified and helped to improve. If the children continue to fail in these schools, there must be consequences. Establish consequences for states not meeting goals.
Caution is needed on any proposal to set aside funding to reward states for achievement.
Recognition of successful states and rewards for master teachers to share their knowledge should be the way to go. Mr. Bush's proposals to withdraw funding if no improvement is shown needs to be refined, debated and ultimately endorsed. There is no point in spending tax dollars where they don't work. Schools that receive federal dollars and continue to show no student gains should be required to reconstitute or close. Introduce choice to achieve gains.