Congress recognized that this categorical approach to children was counter-productive to the goal of improving American education for all children. The language contained in the new law reflects this change in thinking.
All children can master challenging content and complex problem-solving skills.
Research clearly shows that children, including low-achieving children, can succeed when expectations are high and all children are given the opportunity to learn challenging material. The IASA establishes a priority for services for migrant children who are failing or at risk of failing to meet their states' content and performance standards and whose education has been interrupted during the past three years. Migrant education services will be coordinated with other federal, state, and local education services to help migrant children achieve to high standards set by states. Awards are based on the number of eligible children identified within the state. Coordination activities are funded through monies reserved from the appropriation for the Basic State Formula Grant Program.