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A r c h i v e d  I n f o r m a t i o n

Introduction

Our education system faces one of the toughest challenges any complex organization has ever had to face. For the first time in our nation's history, we are asking schools and teachers to educate all children to meet high standards. This is no simple task. Although many of our nation's schools are excellent, those that are not are leaving too many children behind.

Happily, there are people in our communities who know how to transform complex organizations to achieve higher performance: namely, our business and civic leaders.

President Bush's plan, No Child Left Behind, is based on many of the same principles that have renewed American business over the past two decades. At the heart of the President's plan is a promise to raise standards for all children. Since we cannot know if we are meeting those standards unless we measure performance, President Bush is committed to annual assessments of student learning in the basic subjects of reading and math. The information from these tests will allow us to identify and reward schools that are making progress and to intervene in schools that are not. Finally, President Bush is committed to doing what works, especially when it comes to teaching young children how to read.

In sum, this plan—in partnership with parents, communities, school leadership and classroom teachers—will ensure that every child in America receives a great education and that no child is left behind.

The following guide will show you —

• What high standards mean and do
• What to look for in test scores
• How communities can hold schools accountable for results
• How to improve reading instruction and
• Where to turn for more information on how to get involved

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Last updated—December 17, 2004 (jer)