Debate about No Child Left Behind’s (NCLB) accountability provisions continues to simmer as Congress embarks on the law’s lengthy reauthorization process. Passed five years ago as President George W. Bush’s signature education legislation, NCLB has struggled mightily under the weight of high expectations. But as last week’s journal clearly indicated, NCLB has fallen far short of its initial goals. In fact, a number of lawmakers are becoming increasingly alarmed about the law’s far-reaching state mandates and government intrusion.

Much is at stake as Congress considers how to proceed with NCLB’s reauthorization. Will the law continue to require state adherence to stringent federal directives? Or will legislative modifications grant states greater flexibility in the accountability process?

For those of you interested in learning more about the future of this law, the North Carolina Education Alliance will be hosting No Child Left Behind expert, Dr. Eugene Hickok, at our two summer events on June 5th and 6th. A former Undersecretary and Deputy Secretary at the U.S. Department of Education, Dr. Hickok managed NCLB’s implementation from 2001 to 2005.

During his discussion, Dr. Hickok will outline the current law’s strengths and weaknesses, and will provide critical insight into legislative proposals such as the Academic Partnerships Lead Us to Success Act (A-PLUS). A promising new bill introduced by U.S. Senators Cornyn and DeMint, A-PLUS would give states the option of establishing a five-year performance agreement (or “contract”) with the U.S. Secretary of Education. A-PLUS would also give states greater flexibility with federal funds.

A-PLUS has been warmly received: its companion legislation in the House, introduced by U.S. Rep. Hoekstra, has more than 50 co-sponsors. North Carolina Congresswoman Virginia Foxx endorsed A-PLUS on the floor of the House back in March, after holding a roundtable discussion with her constituents in Forsyth County. The Washington, D.C.-based Heritage Foundation has also come out in support of A-PLUS, with a YouTube clip of education analyst Jennifer Marshall praising the proposal.

Please join us as Dr. Hickok provides timely and relevant information on No Child Left Behind and legislative alternatives such as A-PLUS. Dr. Hickok will speak on Tuesday, June 5th in Raleigh, at the North Carolina Museum of History’s Demonstration Gallery, 5 East Edenton Street, beginning at 5:00 p.m. Dr. Hickok will be in Charlotte on Wednesday, June 6th , for a luncheon at UNC-Charlotte’s College of Education Building, 9201 University City Boulevard, beginning at 12:30 p.m. Seating is limited for these events, so register early by e-mailing me. See you in June!