Kendra S. Horn: “today the House takes up historic legislation. We will consider the conference report for H.R. 1, the No Child Left…”

“today the House takes up historic legislation. We will consider the conference report for H.R. 1, the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001, which will provide the most significant education legislation since Congress enacted the Elementary and Secondary Education Act in 1965 and I am very proud to be a cosponsor of the original legislation and to play a small role in the landmark reforms the legislation enacts. As we all know, the cornerstone of H.R. 1 is increased flexibility for local schools in exchange for greater accountability for student progress. Every school and every school district is different and has different needs. For the first time, states and local school districts can target funds where they are needed most. For example, in my home state of California, we have already begun to lower class size. Under H.R. 1, we can use these funds in other areas where we desperately need resources, such as teacher training or special education. Title I funds are protected, ensuring that the needs of disadvantage students are met. Spending decisions are made by state and local officials, who are the most familiar with the particular strengths and needs of their schools, and can best decide how to spend federal funds. H.R. 1 also helps schools help themselves. If a school fails to demonstrate adequate yearly progress, it is given the assistance it needs to turn itself around. At the same time, students can transfer out of that school.”