DOE Seeks Flexibility from No Child Left Behind

By Reid Cairme  (***Reid is a news/media intern, from Kamehameha Schools – Maui.  Edited by Wendy Osher, News Director)

The state Department of Education is seeking flexibility from requirements outlined in the No Child Left Behind Act.

The Hawaii DOE notified the US DOE on September 6, 2012, of its intent to file an application for Elementary and Secondary Education Act Flexibility.

Each state educational agency was offered the opportunity to request ESEA Flexibility.  Under the alternative, states could apply to develop their own rigorous and comprehensive plans designed to improve educational outcomes for all students, close achievement gaps, increase equity, and improve the quality of instruction.

“Hawaii is taking another bold step forward to transform education,” said Superintendent Kathryn Matoyoshi of the state’s decision to apply.

If Hawaii’s application for ESEA Flexibility is approved, state officials say it will:

• Support ongoing efforts to raise expectations for students and better support educators;
• More accurately and fairly identify schools’ strengths and areas for improvement;
• Target interventions and support strategies to reward high-performing schools and address areas for school improvement;
• Support effective instruction and leadership; and
• Be implemented for the 2013-2014 school year.

Before the application is submitted to the US DOE, the state will solicit input from diverse stakeholders and communities in the development of its request.