Flexibility for Streamlining Tests

The Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) encourages states to rethink their assessment and accountability systems. Before the law goes into effect, states can utilize the flexibility offered under existing federal funds to streamline their assessment frameworks. This policy update highlights two states —Illinois and Tennessee—that have taken the initiative to evaluate and inventory their systems. It outlines ways other states can follow suit.

Featured Items

Close up of a little girl looking at some futuristic holograms. Concept: Technology, future, graphics

Five Questions for State Boards to Ask about AI in Schools

GenAI is creating tremendous opportunities but also posing considerable risks and challenges for schools.

Diverse multiethnic kids students having break and using smartphones, sitting at desks in classroom, children playing games and checking social media at school

Curbing Cell Phone Use in Classrooms

State boards are well positioned to create guardrails to help school districts make informed decisions on cell phone policies.

The child hands drawing the American flag. Concept of independence day, July 4.

Civic-Ready Students

More and better civics will inspire students to become better citizens who will be equipped to participate, preserve, and defend America’s democracy and engage in reasoned, respectful discourse.

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From the States

States Face Challenges Building a School Mental Health Workforce

Challenges persist in attracting and retaining this school-based mental health professionals, but some states, including Virginia, Ohio, Colorado, Michigan, and others, are making progress.
States Address Access to Menstrual Products in Schools

States such as Georgia, New York, Utah, and others have increasingly opted to combat “period poverty" by expanding access to free menstrual products in schools.