NYS Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA)
The Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) provides federal funds to improve elementary and secondary education in the nation’s schools. ESSA requires states and Local Educational Agencies (i.e., school districts and charter schools) to take a variety of actions to ensure that all children, regardless of race, socioeconomic status, gender, disability status, primary language or ZIP code, receive the education that they need to be prepared for success in postsecondary education, careers and citizenship. New York State receives approximately $1.6 billion annually in funding through ESSA.
ESSA includes many provisions that will help to ensure success for all students and all schools. Below are just a few. The law:
Advances equity by upholding critical protections for all students.
Requires that all students be taught to high academic standards that will prepare students to succeed in college and careers, and that all students be assessed on these standards to provide important information to educators, families, students and communities.
Maintains an expectation that there will be accountability, support and action to create positive change in all our schools, including our lowest-performing schools.
Provides for culturally responsive instruction and other services to students, parents, school employees and community members.